The Penrhosian Magazine, Winter 2023

Penrhos College acknowledges the Whadjuk people of the Noongar Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work, learn and live; and we extend this acknowledgment to the Traditional Custodians of the communities across Australia that are home to Penrhos boarding families.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sovereignty has never been ceded and we acknowledge that this always was, and always will be Aboriginal land. We are privileged to learn on this Country, and from the oldest continuous living cultures in the world.

Penrhos College values and respects the unique perspectives and knowledges of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within our community, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. In the spirit of reconciliation, Penrhos College acknowledges the role of education in moving forward whilst always remembering and learning from our shared histories.

Welcome

TO A NEW LOOK PENRHOSIAN FOR 2023.

Halfway through the year, having officially launched our new strategy – ‘Courage Starts Here’ in January, I’m delighted to be able to share our new magazine with you – in line with our strategy and the pillars it is built upon.

You’ll still find the same content – news about our alumni, exciting school updates and more about how we are striving for the highest, across the academic, artistic, sporting and relationship fields.

Each of these great stories will be aligned with a pillar:

EMBRACE CREATE SOAR BLAZE IMPACT

showing how we are making progress towards our ambitious goals.

As I shared with our current families earlier this year, when we began the strategic planning process at Penrhos College, we were determined to build a plan that was a stretch, but also achievable, and that would resonate with our teachers, students and community, and allow us to inspire them to help us in our goals.

We believe this work has led to a new strategic direction which is respectful of our 70-year tradition, grounded in the present, and with an eye to the future.

Understanding that we have a crucial role in preparing girls for an uncertain and unpredictable future, we wanted not only to encourage them to see no limits in what they can achieve, but to also play an active role in removing any boundaries that currently exist.

With a vision to revolutionise girls’ education to live a future without boundaries, we see our purpose as being limitless.

Living a life without boundaries requires a true understanding of oneself –knowledge of one’s talents, ability to push beyond comfort zones to learn new skills, with capacity for empathy and effective communication.

While our students consistently receive high ATAR outcomes, the College’s focus goes beyond a number, to each individual girl within the school community.

Our priority is to encourage each student to achieve their personal best. We aim to support students in exploring their passions, doing what they love and are interested in, and realising their full potential. Our staff support our girls in achieving these goals, with a focus on the whole person, not just an ATAR outcome externally.

To that end, when we reach the end of this year, and our wonderful Year 12 students have completed their studies, and received their results, we will not be publishing our mean ATAR score externally.

We are by no means the first school to make this change, and I’m confident we won’t be the last.

While we work closely with each and every individual student to ensure they reach their full potential, and celebrate their successes and their achievements with them, we believe our school, our community and our Year 12 cohort are so much more than a number.

You can read some of their stories in this issue of the Penrhosian. Learn about Junior School teacher Alisha McMullen who has created a new startup with a mission to equip 100,000 young people with the tools, knowledge and community to become the best version of themselves; about the recommencement of tours, opening up the world and a new perspective to our students; about our magnificent alumni achieving amazing things around the world; and our current students representing Penrhos, and Western Australia, with pride, across basketball, beach volleyball and volleyball.

You’ll read more about the Penrhos College Foundation, which provides the opportunity for all in our community to play a vital role in Penrhos’ future and make a real difference for future generations. I encourage you to consider supporting this year’s appeal to help share the incredible gift of a Penrhos education with others, who would not otherwise be able to access the amazing opportunities our current students have available to them.

Thank you for being part of our Penrhos community. It is a community I am proud to be part of and I look forward to all the wonderful things we will continue to achieve together.

COURAGE STARTS HERE.

Kalea Haran Penrhos College Principal

We nurture timeless connections. We foster an inclusive community that embraces character, spirit and identity.

ALUMNI COMMITTEE PRESIDENT’S REPORT

The Penrhos Alumni Committee has enjoyed an exciting, rewarding, and successful start to the year, keeping our alumni community well-connected through a busy calendar of 2023 events.

Our hugely successful Shakers and Stirrers networking evening with the Old Wesley Collegians was held on Friday, 28 April. We welcomed a record crowd to our new venue at South Perth Bowling Club - over 180 people, including many of our more recent graduates. It’s wonderful to see multi-generational family members come together to celebrate their special legacy at Penrhos and Wesley Colleges. We also welcomed a special group of alum who attended both Colleges, their name tags proudly displaying the Wesley crest alongside the red Penrhos dragon.

Some of our youngest alumni celebrated their 18-month Leavers’ Reunion at the Windsor Hotel on Friday, 10 March. The Class of 2021 enjoyed a fun-filled evening catching up with friends and staff, dancing the night away together.

The breadth of experience and career diversity of volunteers is astoundingthere are some truly amazing women out there in our alumni community.

Mondo advise that the growth market for mentoring services is women around 50 years of age - at a time when we may decide to embark on a new career, engage in further study, increase our work commitments, or feel a need for inspiration. I am particularly passionate about this project and delighted to see it in action. This is an important step forward for our alumni community - it recognises the modern woman and forges our support of our alum to transition within or into the workforce.

The College production this year is Legally Blonde – The Musical and our Secondary School girls are deep in rehearsals for what promises to be an amazing show. Save the date for the Pre-Show Soiree on opening night, Thursday, 27 July. Gather your alumni friends for a girls’ night out and celebrate with a champagne on arrival before the show. Please see the Penrhos website for more information and to secure your tickets.

We are delighted to announce that the Mondo Mentoring System launched in February and is now fully functional. The program allows digital connection among members of our alumni for the purpose of expanding or commencing their careers. The initiative is the result of the Alumni Association’s vision to provide additional benefits and support to our alumni community, beyond social engagement.

We have had 53 mentors volunteer to guide and advise our 53 alumni mentees in their chosen careers.

We recently invited alumni to join us in giving the gift of a Penrhos education. Donations received go towards our Scholarships fund, to provide girls the opportunity to experience the spirit of the Red Dragon. Scholarships and bursaries are awarded to students who demonstrate all-round good citizenship – who will flourish in Penrhos’ stimulating environment but whose parents may be unable, for financial reasons, to consider Penrhos College for their daughter.

September will be a busy month with our decade reunions set to take place as well as our annual Founders’ Day celebrations. We look forward to welcoming many of you back to campus for these exciting events. For event dates and more information, please see page 18.

It only remains for me to thank my fellow Committee members, who volunteer their time and expertise to support our College and its students and families – past and present. New members are welcome so please get in touch at alumni@penrhos.wa.edu.au if you would like more details about how you can be involved.

Helen Carr Alumni Committee President

OLD KOBEELYANS’ ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT’S REPORT

With the 2022 Centenary and reunion behind us, the first six months of 2023 have been quieter and at a slower pace for the Old Kobeelyans’ Association Committee.

We have held two social events in the country to provide opportunities for former students to catch up at venues closer to their homes and to avoid the drive to the city., A lunch at Due South, Albany overlooking Princess Royal Harbour in January, and a brunch in Busselton in March.

The next event is a Winter Brunch at Zamia Café, Kings Park in early August. We are looking forward to holding afternoon tea on the Kobeelya Lawn at Penrhos College, following the Association’s AGM in September.

Two working bees have been held at the Kobeelya Museum so far this year, another opportunity to help out to come in August.

Recently, a piano was donated back by a former resident of Katanning who purchased the piano from the Katanning Baptist Church in the 1990s. The piano was originally used by boarding students for evening music practice. Students were required to practice for a half hour each week, during ‘prep’ now commonly called ‘study time’ in preparation for end of year music examinations. The piano has been placed in the School Room section of the Museum and a display will be created to represent the value and significance of music through all eras of the school.

Finally, I would like to acknowledge and recognise the contribution of Jeni Steedman (Class of 1962-1963), former Treasurer, long standing committee member and valued friend of Kobeelya and Penrhos who passed away in April, following a short illness. I was honoured to formally open the Kobeelya Lawn with Jeni in September last year. It was a wonderful moment for us both and laughter ensued as the ribbon was not easy to cut, maybe the scissors were not so sharp! In her daughter’s words, “Mum was very chuffed to be able to cut the ribbon.” Jeni was an inspiration to us all and you can read her Vale on page 20.

Jill Clarke

Old Kobeelyans’ Association President

COMING UP FOR KOBEELYA

Kobeelya School Museum

Open 1st Saturday of the month from 1.30 - 2.30pm

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RSVP - Jill: 0427 854 249 or June: 0409 298 050

Winter Brunch

Sunday, 6 August - 10.30am

Zamia Café, Kings Park

RSVP - Bev: 0400 941 070

Working Bee

• Friday, 25 August

• Saturday, 26 August

• Sunday, 27 August

Kobeelya Museum, Katanning

RSVP - Bev: 0400 941 070

Old Kobeelyans’ Association AGM

Saturday, 9 September2.30pm at Colwyn Staff Centre, Penrhos College, Como.

Followed by afternoon tea on the Kobeelya Lawn.

RSVP - Bev: 0400 941 070

THE ICONIC MURAL

I recently came across several newspaper articles from 1995 in our archive collection, from The West Australian, Sunday Times, Southern Gazette to Fremantle Review, featuring the large mural that is displayed in Rixon Theatre.

It is hard to miss, measuring at 7 metres x 3.5 metres. Most families who have attended Penrhos – particularly those who have been involved in the performing arts, will have a photo or two in their collection with this large mural as the backdrop.

Penrhos College and viewed hours of recorded footage of performances to gain inspiration for the mural. Titled - De Lait de Cygne (Milk of the Swan) Cherie was given one brief, to produce a painting which depicts all the arts in some way. In an article published in the Sunday Times on 19 March 1995, Cherie said:

“I took the idea of using the water because it is constantly changing and on the move. No work of art is ever really finished. I could have kept working forever. The title refers to the search of the ordinary in which we find the extraordinary.”

For such a large and significant artwork, in a prominent position, the background, inspiration and process for commissioning the piece hasn’t been clear – and is something I wanted to learn more about.

So, I dug a little deeper.

In 1995, Penrhos College officially opened the $4 million, 750 seat Performing Arts Centre. Later renamed the Rixon Theatre, in honor of Mr Graham Rixon, Principal at Penrhos College from 1986 to 2007, the venue has since been the home of countless productions, dance performances, musical showcases and assemblies.

As part of the opening, the Penrhos College Alumni Committee commissioned Cherie Knott, a Fremantle artist to paint a mural as a gift to the College. Taking over two months to complete, the oil on canvas, depicts different aspects of performing arts from dance to music to composers. An accomplished performing artist in her own right, Cherie was a choreographer, composer, published poet and a sculptor. To prepare for the project, Cherie spent time observing classes of performing arts students at

Scan the QR code to view the video and hear how their view of the mural has evolved over time.

The next time you are in Rixon Theatre, take a closer look at this significant piece of artwork. We’d love to hear what you notice, and what you find to be the most interesting section of the mural.

Merilyn Orchard Archivist

Loretta Dease (Class of 1961) and Natalie Freeman (Class of 1984), Penrhos Alumni and members of the Alumni Committee at the time of the Theatre opening, recently spent time speaking with me about the mural.

JENNIFER BOWDEN (Roberts, Class of 1993) has been appointed CEO of the Mathematics Association of Victoria (MAV). Jen has worked for the MAV as an education consultant for 15 years and is a passionate advocate for mathematics education and a natural leader.

Jen’s commitment to improving mathematics education is evident in her contributions to the broader community through speaking engagements, leading professional learning workshops, and authoring mathematics educational resources. Her devotion to professional development enables her to bring innovative ideas and pedagogical approaches to her work with the MAV.

Jen’s appointment as CEO of the MAV marks an exciting new phase for the association and the wider mathematics education community in Victoria. Her extensive experience, unwavering passion, and leadership skills make her the ideal candidate to lead the MAV into the future.

Taylor is currently in the process of raising funds and seeking sponsors to help her get to Los Angeles in July. If anyone is interested in donating or would like to know more details about sponsorship, Taylor-Anne can be contacted at taylorannebright@gmail.com.

VERITY COOKE (Williams, Class of 2008) and Allan Cooke recently celebrated their marriage, joined by many loved ones (including their sausage pups Maple and Korra!) in the stunning surrounds of Margaret River’s Karri Forest. After a couple of weeks with the extended family down south, the smitten couple jetted off to Lisbon, Portugal as the first stop on their European summer honeymoon.

Pictured is Cathy alongside her fellow Penrhos alum buddies, Tonia Rewega, Alaine Jowett (MacDonald), Jill Seymour and Emma Cory (Cottrell). We love seeing the everlasting friendship that forms between our Penrhos alums!

After graduating in 2021 with a Bachelor of Performing Arts from Federation University Arts Academy

TAYLOR-ANNE BRIGHT (Class of 2018) has had many opportunities in the industry. Taylor was lucky to work on different TV and film sets throughout 2022 before having the opportunity to audition to be a part of the World Championships of Performing Arts being held in Anaheim, USA. Over 75,000 applicants from more than 50 countries auditioned to participate in this July and Taylor was selected as one of the few to represent Australia at the Championships.

This highly acclaimed competition is the only official global event for performers and entertainers from all over the world to come together to participate not only for the Gold Medal but for career opportunities in the performing industry.

This year, Penrhos alum CATHY COOKSEY (Class of 1991), has presented her incredible work at Sculptures by the Sea. This “school” of strange fish bones represents the data that tells the story of the potential crisis facing the Western Australian dhufish. By generating interest, Cathy hopes that her audience will consider the community’s impact on the environment and to build trust in the scientific processes that are helping to look after it. To see more of Cathy’s designs, go check out her Instagram at, https://www.instagram.com/ cathycookseydesign/

BEC CORSTON (Class of 2003)

re-located to Melbourne in 2014 and has been working in the Victorian Public Service since 2016. Bec’s passion in life is animals, at one point she had 5 ferrets and 2 cats! Bec spends her spare time singing in a community choir and doing lots of roller skating (2 broken wrists in 2022 - whoops!).

Bec was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2021 when she was only 34. (Check your boobs!) She spent the year going through chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation while Melbourne was in and out of lockdown and WA’s hard border sadly limited family visits. She finished active treatment in November 2021 just before celebrating her 35th birthday and has been in the clear ever since!

In 2022, OLIVIA CUNNINGHAM (Class of 2013) welcomed her baby girl, Eleanor who is currently 16 months old.

MOLLY DELANEY (Class of 2011) and Jake Withers lovingly married at Voyager Estate in Margaret River in November 2022. Four of Molly’s bridesmaids were fellow Penrhosians: Ali Mitchell (2011), Stacey Norman (2011), Talicia Dodd (2011) and sister Lily Delaney (2018). The Celebrant also attended Penrhos College, Moira Gollow (O’Brien-Smith, Class of 2011) @Tranquil.Lane.Celebrant

Lydia’s masters project end goal is to hold a dual premiere in WA and The Netherlands of a Passion about two boys on the Dutch vessel The Zeewijck that shipwrecked off the coast of Geraldton in 1727.

After living in New York and working on Broadway for the last two decades, CARMEL DEAN (Class of 1995) recently had the great privilege of sitting on the Tony Award Nominating Committee. This entailed seeing all 38 Broadway shows that opened between July 2022 and April 2023, and then along with a few dozen industry colleagues, selecting the plays and musicals that would then vie for the prestigious Tony Awards!

Carmel and her partner Sar recently attended the 2023 award ceremony and had a blast seeing and celebrating the best of Broadway. It was thrilling to see that live theatre - an industry that was decimated over the pandemic - is bouncing back, stronger than ever!

LYDIA GARDINER (Class of 2016) will be moving to The Hague in the Netherlands later this year to complete a Master of Composition at the Royal Conservatoire. She has also been awarded the Holland Scholarship from the Conservatoire which is awarded to a limited number of masters students each year. Lydia has chosen to continue her studies in composition after a number of successful commissions by groups such as the West Australian Young Voices, The UWA Con Cantorum, the Giovanni Consort, the St George’s Cathedral Consort, the Anglican Schools Commission, Tura New Music, Perth Orchestra Project, The Choral Collective, the Perth Guitar Quartet, the UWA Choral Society and the Melbourne-based ensemble Fiore Chamber.

Works that Lydia has written have been performed in the Perth Festival and in venues such as the Perth Concert Hall and St George’s Cathedral. In 2021, her work ‘A New Ceremony of Carols’ was broadcast on ABC Classic and was re-broadcast in December of 2022. The West Australian said of this work “It is hard to imagine Christmas music more sublime than Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols — yet Perth composer Lydia Gardiner might have created just that.”

In 2021, MELISSA JENKIN (McCallum, Class of 1988) had a kidney transplant from an angel donor. This changed her life, after a very fast decline and two years on dialysis. This year Melissa attended the World Transplant Games competing in Lawn Bowls. What an experience so many inspirational stories to hear and people to meet.

Please discuss organ donation with your family and friends. It does change lives for more than the recipient and makes the decision easier if your wishes are known.

Congratulations to past staff member, NORBERT FANDRY who was recently recognised with an Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to secondary education. Norbert’s career spanned 45 years in education, with 27 of those years spent at Penrhos College. Norbert’s skills, talents and commitment to the betterment of the students was what made him an inspirational member of staff.

For anyone who knows or remembers SHANA JAMES (Class of 1986) from school, will be aware that her life has been art.

“I drew a lot of images for the 1985 SAGA including the front cover which now looks pretty embarrassing! However, this was the beginning of a 35-year career in the visual arts which includes, exhibiting and selling my work alongside working as an art educator in the tertiary and adult sectors. Alma Tooke was my fabulous art teacher who encouraged me and helped me believe I could follow my passion. Years later in 2019, I was Artist-in-Residence at Penrhos and opened the student exhibition. Penrhos also purchased three of my artworks for their collection. In 2021 I completed my Masters by Research in Visual Art at ECU having completed my undergrad in Fine Art at Curtin 30 years before. Going back to study after such a long break wasn’t easy at first but was incredibly rewarding.

I am currently preparing to run a linocut art retreat in Ubud, Bali in January of 2024. This is an amazing workshop designed to reconnect people to their creativity. The venue is set in five hectares of stunning tropical gardens, with gourmet food freshly prepared from local produce. If you are interested in finding out more, please see the website for details https:// ubudartworkshops.com.au/

ROBYN MAIN (Gardiner, Class of 1981) recently lost her husband to Creutzfeld-Jakob Disease. She then decided to look to those less fortunate around her and keep fit in memory of Rich, who was a Health/PE teacher.

After realising they were all exPenrhosians, they reminisced about the cross-country and rowing teams, shared many laughs about old times, and all ended up attending the 2023 Women in Resources Awards at the Perth Convention Centre.

I would like to extend a special offer for all Penrhos Alumni, which is, your non workshop partner can join you for just $100 extra! This is not on the website so you will need to contact me directly (email on the website). All levels of art experience are welcome from absolute beginners to up skilling teachers and experienced artists. Start the year feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and inspired.”

These aims led Robyn to walking the Larapinta trail in the Northern Territory in May with the charity group CBM, raising $32,000 for children in developing countries with club foot. Robyn lost a few toenails in the process of walking the track but says this was nothing compared to what these children go through with their disability, which can be easily fixed with surgery. She then went on to sing Mahler 8 “Symphony of a Thousand” at Sydney Opera House with Chorus Oz and is currently on “a high”!

CHELSEA YORK (Class of 2021) has recently completed a Patisserie course at Bentley TAFE and is currently completing an apprenticeship at Crumbs Patisserie in the Applecross Village. During her time at TAFE, Chelsea was chosen to participate in media coverage with Premier, Mark McGowan, and was a finalist for the South Metro TAFE Awards in the category ofVocational Student of the Year.

Since 2020, CAITLIN LEANE (Doughty, Class of 2000) has been living in Karratha and working for Rio Tinto at Dampier Port as a fixed plant Maintenance Manager.

To Caitlin’s surprise she attended a meeting with the Business Partner for Information Systems & Technology, CAMILLA KRAJKRAJEWSKI (Class of 2000) who is the IS&T Manager for Iron Ore Port & Rail divisions, and the Commercial Procurement Manager for Port and Dampier Salt, KAROLINA JOHNSON (Hayes, Class of 2002)

HANNAH MORCOMBE (Class of 2016) has launched her business Innerglow Guide: yoga and meditation workshops for Year 11 and 12 students to de-stress, equipping them with the tools to care for their own wellbeing. Hannah is a yoga teacher and youth mentor. Her passion for youth wellbeing sparked from her experiences with

navigating stress, anxiety, and ADHD whilst in her final years at Penrhos and into university. Hannah aims to inspire young people to cultivate their inner-calm, reconnect with their innerguidance and find their Innerglow.

Claire successfully made the cut off, completing 86 kms and over 6,500m of elevation gain to finish in 14 hours 50 minutes.

On the 28th of April 2023, MADDISON PARKE (Ozanne, Class of 2015) married her best friend at a beautiful ceremony at Burswood on Swan, surrounded by family and friends.

She recently provided a guided yoga and meditation session for the Year 11 Penrhos students. It brought her immense joy to give back to the next generation of Penrhosians, sharing the knowledge and experiences that she has gained throughout her pursuit of bettering her health and wellbeing in a self-compassionate way.

TAYLA SHILLINGFORD (Clatworthy, Class of 2011) chopped and changed careers a few times since leaving Penrhos, but with three children under 5, has turned her very busy mum life, into business-mum life. After finding her passion for fitness after having babies, she realised there was a lack of support around training during pre and post partum. Talya has since completed her Certificate IV in Personal Training specialising in pre- and post-natal functional fitness.

AMELIA THORNTON (Barton, Class of 2017) is currently studying a Masters of Sustainable Agriculture, while also working as Event Manager for the Wagin Woolorama. Amelia married Callum Thornton in August 2022 and soon welcomed their first child, Maisie Thornton in April 2023.

LAUREN MENAGE (Class of 2009) has recently finished her Psychology Degree, married the man of her dreams and celebrated the arrival of their first child.

For more information about Innerglow Guide visit the website www.innerglowguide.com.au

CLAIRE O’BRIEN-SMITH (Class of 2008) recently represented Australia in the World Mountain Trail running titles in Austria. Claire was the 66th female in a field of 135, with over half not making cut off time.

Tayla hopes to help more women around her small country town to feel more confident and comfortable training while pregnant and in their post-natal journey. Tayla has recently started a new business called ‘T Sea Fitness’ in Exmouth WA, with private training, small group fitness classes and virtual options available.

I first met Jeni Stedman in 2021 as we prepared to celebrate Kobeelya’s 100 year anniversary. When I sat down with Jeni to record her memories of Kobeelya, it became clear her connection with Kobeelya is deep. The school is located in the former home and grounds of Jeni’s great-grandfather (Hon FH Piesse MLA, of Katanning).

Jeni commenced at Kobeelya College in 1962 as a boarder to complete her last two years of high school. She recalls standing in front of the school with her arms around a box tree saying to her parents “I will not go to that school, I’m old enough to go to work now.”

Her impressions of the school certainly changed, as during our conversation Jeni spoke warmly about her time at Kobeelya, remembering teachers and the subjects they taught. Among her fond memories were playing the shy elf in the school production of Greensleeves Magic, and what she loved most of all - the horses that the College kept and the riding she was able to do at school.

Vale

After graduating from Kobeelya, Jeni went on to Stott’s Business College and in 1968, she travelled to the UK to work for over two years with a friend she met at Kobeelya.

Jeni’s connection with Kobeelya still remained strong as she joined the Old Kobeelyans’ Association for a period in the 1990s, returning in 2005 until 2023.

At the end of our conversation, I asked Jeni if she had any final thoughts about her time at Kobeelya:

“My time at Kobeelya was precious, I go away with 4 other Kobeelyans every year… I’ve got sisters in abundance and a lifetime of friends.”

Penrhos College was honoured to have Jeni officially open the Kobeelya Lawn in October 2022 with Jill Clarke, Old Kobeelyans’ Association President.

(Merilyn Orchard, Archivist)

Andrea Zuideveld-Tiffitt

Andrea was part of the winning 1990 Head of the River four-seat crew for Penrhos College, the first Penrhos College crew to achieve this feat. This was the first year of a full rowing program for the College, led and co-ordinated by her mother Wendy Zuideveld. Andrea then joined the first intake of women into the Swan River Rowing Club. She competed in the Interstate Women’s Four for Western Australia between 1991 and 1993, with their best result being a silver medal. Andrea, with Lara StephensonWilliams, also won several State rowing Championships for her club, Swan River Rowing.

The Zuideveld family has been synonymous with rowing for many decades. The Wendy Zuideveld Perpetual Trophy for the Schoolgirl, Head of the River Regatta, Champion School is named after Andrea’s mother. Following her time at the College, Andrea studied Occupational Therapy at University, while continuing to row.

After her successful graduation, Andrea headed to England with her future husband David, to work as an Occupational Therapist at the Royal Marsden Hospital London and to travel through Europe. Several family members and friends joined Andrea and David on their travels which she loved. Andrea returned home to marry David Triffitt at Penrhos College Chapel and they happily had four wonderful children, living and working the country life in Busselton.

Andrea commenced at Penrhos College in 1985 and graduated in 1990. During this time Andrea participated in various College activities, while studying in preparation for university. Andrea keenly joined in the Performing Arts productions over several years, in particular, those involving Wesley College.

Andrea passed away on 1 January 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.

Vale Andrea ~ Easy Oar ~

(Vanessa Grant, former coach and friend)

Class of 1962-1963

Class of 1990

REMEMBERING OUR PENRHOSIANS

Janine Scholes (Green)

Janine was a proud Penrhosian – from student, to teacher, to mother and grandmother of Penrhosians. Her journey with Penrhos began in 1964 when she attended Penrhos College for high school. Members of Janine’s cohort and friends of the Class of 1968 remember Janine’s beautiful smile, sense of humour, infectious laugh, welcoming nature and her genuine care and concern for others. She is also remembered as “Speedy” as she was a very talented runner.

In 1990, Janine returned to Penrhos as a classroom English teacher. As a teacher she was always firm but fair with students, earning her the respect of students, parents and staff. When her daughter Michelle began as a student at Penrhos in 1995, Janine decided to step back from full-time teaching, and went back to study part-time, eventually becoming the Careers Adviser at the College. It was in this role that Janine introduced lectures on other courses, apprenticeships and traineeships for the non-TEE students as well as organising seminars with representatives from WA’s various tertiary institutions. Janine played a very important role in helping many students decide which subjects to study at school to be able to continue their studies in the field they were interested in for their future. There are so many families that will remember Janine in this role.

Whilst working part-time as the Careers Adviser at Penrhos, Janine simultaneously ran her family business, the Fremantle Village caravan park. When this began to become increasingly busy, Janine decided it was time to leave Penrhos in 2006. This added flexibility in working for herself allowed Janine and her husband and family to be able to travel, something that she loved to do.

Janine again returned to Penrhos College when her granddaughter Sophie joined Penrhos in Year 5 in 2021. Returning to the College as a grandmother brought back many happy memories for Janine and she was able to catch up with some old friends and colleagues which was special for her. Graham Rixon and Valrie Mayger worked with Janine and shared their memories of her time at Penrhos College as a member of the teaching community.

“I admired Janine greatly as a staff member, a wonderful caring English teacher, the initiator of the Careers Education Program and an enthusiastic Head of Year coordinator. I hope Janine’s family and friends find comfort in the knowledge that she made a positive difference to the lives of many students, staff and parents.”

(Graham Rixon, Principal 1986 - 2007)

“In hearing the memories that Janine’s school friends have of her, it’s obvious that she carried these unforgettable attributes into her professional life. Her kindness to other staff members, care for her students and her professionalism and dedication to her teaching all come immediately to mind. However, her somewhat cheeky disposition and her laugh are also high on my list of memories. I had the opportunity to chat to Janine at a Penrhos Grandparents Day last year.

We hadn’t seen each other for over 20 years but immediately chatted about her grandchildren and shared some memories, as if it were yesterday.”

(Valrie

2000)

Mayger, Vice Principal 1988 to

Lucy Richardson

Class of 1991

Lucy was an intelligent well-liked student, funny and caring friend, talented musician, passionate teacher, and mother of 3 beautiful children - of whom she was incredibly proud. I can confidently speak on behalf of our cohort when I say she could light up a room, bring sunshine to a dark day and possessed such a sense of fun, humour and cheekiness that would make you laugh - even at the most inopportune times, like during Chapel!

Lucy will be greatly missed, sorry for the goodbye we didn’t get to say.

(Jodie

Perram, Class of 1991)

Class of 1968

THE DATE Save

HAPPY DAYS, COMMUNITY MIXER

Saturday, 22 July

Llew Woodford Function Centre, Penrhos College

PRE-SHOW SOIREE, LEGALLY BLONDE

Thursday, 27 July Colwyn Staff Centre, Penrhos College

CLASS OF 2013 - 10 YEAR REUNION

Friday, 1 September Colwyn Staff Centre, Penrhos College

FOUNDERS’ DAY

CLASS OF 1973 - 50 YEAR REUNION

CLASS OF 1963 - 60 YEAR REUNION

Tuesday, 5 September Penrhos College

Alumni reunions and events are a fantastic opportunity to rekindle old friendships, take a walk down memory lane and catch up with your Penrhos peers.

Make sure to save these 2023 dates in your diaries!

CLASS OF 2003 - 20 YEAR REUNION

Friday, 8 September

Colwyn Staff Centre, Penrhos College

CLASS OF 1983 - 40 YEAR REUNION

Friday, 15 September

Colwyn Staff Centre, Penrhos College

CLASS OF 1993 - 30 YEAR REUNION

Saturday, 16 September

Colwyn Staff Centre, Penrhos College

COMBINED INDEPENDENT GIRLS’ SCHOOLS’ ANNUAL GOLF DAY

Monday, 6 November

More details to come, if interested please contact Pat Tamminga (1964) on thetees@bigpond.com

We build learning adventures for life. We create learning adventures where Penrhosians explore their full potential.

DREAMS DO COME TRUE

I first started Penrhos College in Pre-Primary and went on to spend my entire schooling life at the College. In Year 1, I had my first taste of music when I began learning the violin. After that there wasn’t a moment that I didn’t spend in the Music or Drama Department.

Throughout school I always participated in the annual production, sung in both choir and chorale, and eventually became the Junior School Vice-Captain of Music and the Middle School Drama Captain.

In Year 6 I began my professional acting career, starring in Les Misérables at the Perth Entertainment Centre. For the entire run of the show and rehearsals, I would go to school every day, be picked up early by my mum and then head straight to the theatre at night. From there it snowballed and I went on to appear in the Sound of Music in Year 7 and Annie in Year 8, with seasons at WA Opera in between.

Eventually Penrhos College supported me as I took 6 months off in Year 11 to film the TV series Parallax, before I returned ready to finish Secondary School.

After graduation I realised that the entertainment industry and performance opportunities weren’t peaking in Perth, so I went to law school. I completed my degree and practiced as a lawyer for two years until, at the age of 24, I realised how much I missed performing and singing each day. After this realisation I packed my bags and headed to London.

While I was living in London, I was lucky enough to complete my Masters at the Royal Academy of Music, perform in musicals, film my first ever feature film with Mila Kunis and record multiple seasons of Thomas the Tank Engine. When COVID hit, I made the decision to return to Perth before things got any worse.

During 2020, when Perth was in and out of lockdown, my good friend and fellow performer Amy Manford and I saw the opportunity to put on a concert. Perth was one of the few cities in the world with open concert halls, and we knew we needed to make the most of that opportunity. In December, we launched The Magical Music of Animation at the Perth Concert Hall with the West Coast Philharmonic. It took almost 6 months of reaching out to Disney in California before we were given the green light to feature Disney music in our show.

Fresh off the success of our first show, and still in the depths of COVID lockdowns, Amy and I formed our theatrical production company MM Creative Productions. I had always wanted to become a producer, and COVID expedited that career path for me. In October 2021, we opened Disney in Concert: A Dream is a Wish which featured a cast of Broadway, West End and Australian Music Theatre stars alongside the West Australian Symphony Orchestra.

A Dream is a Wish was our first official collaboration with Disney and Amy and I adored every second, selling out three shows at the Riverside Theatre. After the season wrapped, Disney gave us the opportunity to spearhead their upcoming 100th Anniversary celebrations in Australia. After months of creative collaboration, and multiple midnight Zoom calls, we launched Disney 100: The Concert.

Disney 100 was a huge step forward for MM Creative, being our first national tour and the first time we had launched a Disney show outside of Perth.

We shouldn’t have worried though, we sold out three shows at Sydney Opera House in 72 hours and launched an extra date. Definitely a career highlight!

We shouldn’t have worried though, we sold out three shows at Sydney Opera House in 72 hours and launched an extra date. Definitely a career highlight for me!

Stepping onto the Opera House stage is something that I have always dreamed of, so stepping out to a sold-out audience knowing I was the Executive Producer for the show was a dream

The tour is now wrapped and we are in the beginning stages of putting our 2024 and 2025 season together, which will hopefully feature MM Creative’s first international production… and of course some more Disney magic!

If I have one message to give to younger Penrhos girls who are looking to get into the performing arts, it’s to not give up. I know that it sounds cheesy but when I graduated Year 12, I knew I wanted to be an actor but that career path just felt so unattainable from Perth, and so I didn’t follow my heart. I truly believe if you work hard enough and take those risks, you can make anything happen.

For those that would like to hear more, or even support our upcoming shows, feel free to subscribe to our mailing list on www.mmcreativeproductions.com

Genevieve McCarthy

Photos courtesy of Sunflower Sessions and Jarrad Seng

THE RETURN OFinternational EXCHANGE

‘Konnichi wa’ could be heard throughout the College campus in March, as 24 Japanese exchange students made their way through the Margaret Way Courtyard. After a three-year absence due to COVID-19, Penrhos staff and students were thrilled to see the Japanese students from Kyoritsu Girls School, an elite school centred in Tokyo.

The Japanese students immersed themselves into Penrhos College for 7 days. The visit, while short in length was packed with memorable experiences the exchange students will never forget. Naturally, no exchange would be complete without a day trip to Rottnest Island and the ultimate quokka selfie. The students also had the opportunity to meet koalas at Caversham Wildlife Park.

During their time at the College, the Kyoritsu School students participated in an array of special lessons crafted for them by the amazing and generous Penrhos College staff. After meeting their ‘school buddies’, the exchange students were given an orientation lesson about Australian high schools, taught some Australian slang, and were shown around the campus…they were left speechless by the amazing facilities, the vastness of the College and the amount of greenery.

The exchange students buddied up with similar age students and spent the first day as a ‘day in the life of a Penrhos College student’. Many were surprised by the way the students openly interact with the teachers and the amount of discussion and conversation there is. In most Japanese schools, the teachers ‘teach’, and the students ‘listen’.

The exchange students dived into Australian culture and made lamingtons with the wonderful Mrs Rivett. Apart from the joy in making them, the eating at the end was a huge highlight, with many of the students mentioning they will try to make lamingtons for their family upon returning to Japan.

Next up was conquering the climbing wall. Apart from the fact they had never seen a climbing wall like that in a school, they were taken back when we told them they would be climbing it! Much laughter and screams could be heard as they pulled, pushed and fell from the wall. Several students, who were complete beginners, even managed to reach the top. Mr Mizen and Mr Armitage with his one word of Japanese entertained and supported the students…even with a language barrier, when it feels as though your life depends on it, it is amazing how communication can be made.

The special treat for them was attending the annual Amanda Young Fair and many of the students took up the opportunity to get involved in all the activities, including throwing wet sponges at us staff, something you would never do in Japan!

Mr Horwood and Mrs Campbell blew the exchange students away with the College’s IT facilities, with the exchange students particularly engaged with the virtual reality glasses. Even though the bell went to go home, they insisted on staying and continuing the activity.

Our dance teacher showed them how to dance!!! The exchange students were extremely enthusiastic and learnt the dance routine with considerable ease and enjoyment, thanks to the expertise of Mrs Best.

After an Australian barbeque, the exchange students had a cultural exchange opportunity with the Year 5 Junior School students and Mrs Clifton. The excitement was deafening, and the Penrhos students played a variety of Japanese traditional games and activities.

We then moved on to learn about Australian heritage and participated in Aboriginal art with Ms O’Donnell and the Ngala Maya students. The meaning of the art was explained, and the exchange students showed a real interest in the stories behind them.

The Farewell Ceremony sums up why exchange programs are such an important aspect of schooling life. After speeches from the Penrhos and Kyoritsu students, as well as Principal Ms Haran, the exchange students were entertained by the Ngala Maya girls and a traditional Aboriginal dance.

Once all formalities were complete, lots of photos, hugging and tears were shed as the students farewelled each other. It is that moment when the value and amazing experience of international exchange is highlighted. The Penrhos students escorted the exchange students to the front gate, waving the students off and yelling they will see them in Japan in June for our upcoming Japanese Tour!

It is amazing to have international exchange opportunities return this year, they are a chance to not only develop their vocabulary, but an opportunity to build self-confidence, independence and friendships, while learning cultural customs you could never teach in a classroom.

Scott Haddrell Head of Department and Exchange Coordinator

The journey to

YALE

We were delighted to hear the news that HOLLY BROADBENT (Class of 2015) has been offered a full scholarship from Yale University to study the organ. Holly’s passion for music began in her early years at Penrhos and she went on to have many wonderful experiences during her time at the College. Holly hopes that by sharing her story she might inspire others to consider learning the organ – especially as the Penrhos Chapel was gifted a beautiful WRAGG Pipe Organ, by past Director of Music, Dudley Bastian.

When did you get involved in the music program at Penrhos?

I started at Penrhos College when I was in Year 1 and became part of the Suzuki Violin program under Jenny Cadd and Catherine Alexander. In Secondary School I was Music Captain and also took up the oboe and composition.

What are some of your favourite memories from your years at the College?

Some of my best memories come from my final years at Penrhos. While the workload increases as you approach Year 12, events such as the College Production, Music Tour, Music Camp, and the Year 12 Ball helped me form unforgettable memories and experiences.

Was there anyone in particular who had an impact on you?

The Director of Music at the time, Paul McCarthy, was incredibly influential in my path towards a career in music - I don’t think I’d be where I am now if I hadn’t had him as a teacher. Mr McCarthy not only helped me realise I had a talent for music but went above and beyond to organise opportunities and help me reach my full potential.

How did you get into playing the organ?

I played the piano from a young age and always had a great interest in the composer J.S. Bach, who was also an organist. After graduating from Penrhos, I immediately found a way to learn the organ and from the very minute I first played, I knew I’d found my instrument. I soon realised that there are very few female organists in the world, so I felt I was challenging the stereotypical image of an organist, which was exciting!

What did you do after you graduated from Penrhos?

I completed my Bachelor’s degree in music specialist studies at UWA before going on to receive a First-Class Honours degree in organ from WAAPA. Playing the organ has brought me many opportunities. Until recently I was organist at St George’s Cathedral and have performed at the Perth Concert Hall, toured as organist for the Australian Youth Orchestra and performed as a finalist at the Sydney International Organ Competition.

Are you still in touch with classmates?

I regularly catch-up with my group of Penrhos friends; the friends I made at school are friendships that I’ll have for a lifetime. We have certainly all changed a lot since school, but we all still cherish our catch-ups together.

How did your acceptance

at Yale come

about?

I auditioned at Yale University in February this year and was fortunate enough to be accepted on a full scholarship. I am really looking forward to working with one of the organ teachers at Yale, James O’Donnell, who was previously Master of Music at Westminster Abbey. During his tenure he headed the music for various Royal events such as the Queen’s funeral and William & Kate’s wedding.

What message would you like to share with our current and future students?

My advice would be to work hard and make the most out of every opportunity at Penrhos. When I started in Junior School, I had no idea about what I wanted to do but I tried my best in everything I did to see where that would lead me. While I certainly studied hard at school, I think it is also so important to take breaks and enjoy your time with your friends.

Why did your parents decide to send you to Penrhos?

My oldest sister, Jazmin began boarding at Penrhos when I was just 5 years old, with my other sister Renae joining her three years later.

I grew up knowing and looking forward to boarding at Penrhos College after seeing my older sisters attend. We have always loved the environment and nature of Penrhos boarding so there was really no reason for us to consider anywhere else!

How did you feel when you first came to Penrhos?

Unlike most boarders on their first day, I didn’t feel a sense of sadness. I knew that I would miss the farm and of course my family, but I was so excited to begin what I saw as a 6-year long sleepover!

Life as a

I know my Mum and Dad cried as they drove around the roundabout that first day, leaving their youngest daughter in boarding for the last time, but I was determined to embrace living my new life away in the big city.

What did you find most challenging or difficult in your first few weeks?

I was lucky to have an older sister in Year 11 when I started as a Year 7 student. She was able to guide me around the school and make sure little Year 7 me didn’t walk into a Year 12 class on the first day! While I was very comfortable adapting to boarding life, I was more nervous about the school side of things. We had so much help and support from everyone and the first week turned out to be a lot easier than expected!

How often do you travel home to spend time with your family? Does your family come to visit you here at the Boarding House?

My mum and dad miss both my sisters and I a tad too much, so they often travel to Perth to spend time with us. Sometimes they just pop in when dad has parts to pick up in Perth. Even if he’s in a rush, I might finish the school day and find a little box of choccies waiting on my bed for me.

I also travel home every mid-term break and school holidays to soak up the time on the farm. I love getting to spend the time at home catching up with my family and grandparents, as I don’t often get to see them.

What are the benefits of being a boarding student at Penrhos?

Boarding at Penrhos has opened up a whole new window of opportunities that I never would have had in my small hometown of Kellerberrin. Not only academically, but also with sport and just life in general. I play netball each weekend at Fremantle Netball Association, representing the Penrhos Boarding team. From this, some girls are lucky enough to be asked to trial for the Fremantle rep team and the opportunity to extend their netball skills in a higher-level team.

We also have many ‘rec’ activities with other schools which allows us to meet other boarding students and create friendships that extend far beyond Penrhos.

I really like that the Boarding House is one whole building that rooms 100 girls. The small community allows everyone the chance to grow close and create a family-like bond that you may not receive in a larger boarding house.

What has your highlight been while Boarding at Penrhos?

I was fortunate to be part of the Boarding Prefect Team this year, working alongside our Boarding Captain, Tanna and three other Year 12 boarders. We have weekly meetings to organise exciting events to keep the Boarding House fun and maintain family-like relationships. We recently organised a quiz night which turned out to be a

huge hit. The girls had to dress up in their allocated colour and there were truly some amazing outfits! We had mixed year group tables which allowed all the new girls to get to know the older girls and vice-versa. There are many more events in the making which we are sure the girls will love!

What did you find surprising about boarding and what will you miss?

I think some people count down the days until they leave school, and as excited as I am to embrace the next part of my life, the thought of not living alongside my 20 adopted sisters is

going to be strange! We have grown up together and the Boarding House has been our home away from home for the last six years. It will be hard to leave.

Our incredible Head of Boarding, Ms Langdon and the House Mothers have been a major part of my boarding experience. They are there for us no matter how big or small the issue and I will miss them all immensely!

Kya Reid Year 12 Boarder

We advance a culture of learning and growth. We elevate the skills and talents of our people in a creative, high growth learning environment.

INAll

ALL IN is a space for inspired young people in Perth to learn new skills and mindsets, and to be a part of an ongoing community that fosters personal growth. High schools place so much importance on their students’ academic pursuits and it often feels hard to make time for growth outside of the classroom.

ALL IN aims to support students in becoming well-rounded young adults by developing life skills such as self-awareness, goal setting, leadership and driving change so they feel confident and capable to dream big and achieve their goals.

Along with my co-founders, we have put together a 3-day conference program for young leaders to come together and engage in stimulating conversations they wouldn’t normally have. Throughout the conference, there will be hands-on activities and reflective discussions as students learn not only from us as facilitators and from guest speakers, but also from each other.

Bringing students together from a diverse range of schools across Perth will enrich the experience with different perspectives allowing participants to create a network of driven and passionate young people for life after school.

The component that we are really excited about, is what comes after the conference. We are taking action to avoid the ‘post-event slump’ that

often occurs after these kinds of experiences, where participants slot back into their normal lives forgetting everything they’ve learned. Rather, we have a follow-up program in place for them to apply their learnings and set goals moving forward. We are aiming to create a culture that fosters lifelong learning that is relevant and applicable to young people in the 21st century. This way, the learning will be authentic, relevant and ongoing, allowing the students to benefit from our program and stay connected for years to come.

Throughout my time at high school and university, I attended and mentored at many different leadership and self-development programs in Perth, interstate and internationally. There is something really special about bringing likeminded and passionate people together for a transformative experience, where they leave feeling empowered to make a difference. This was the same for my two co-founders, Paris and Eddie. After working as a content developer and workshop facilitator for Curtin University’s student leadership program, Paris and I decided that we wanted to create a space where high school students could feel empowered. We thought, what’s the point waiting for university to learn all the transformative habits and skills?

After completing a course at the Centre of Entrepreneurial Research and Innovation to develop our startup, we brought Eddie on board with our vision.

We have dedicated many hours ideating and planning how we will make our vision a reality. Despite having extremely different experiences as high school students, the three of us strongly believe that students don’t have access to transformative personal development experiences and lack the support they need to achieve their goals. We want to change that.

Between the three of us, it has been so exciting to share our visions for ALL IN and we feel proud to be dreaming big because of how much we believe in our ‘why’. We see a real opportunity for young people in Perth to take a step forward and commit to a better future for themselves and their communities, so we’re making it happen.

In the future, we see ALL IN being a space that is well known to young people in Perth and around Australia. One day we would love to host a national conference where students come from far and wide to experience the spark that our community brings. By the end of our program, we want participants to confidently say, ‘ALL IN was the best thing I ever did.’

We’re going all in with this vision because we believe wholeheartedly in the power of youth empowerment and a strong, ongoing community.

The process of developing our startup has been a whole new experience that I have learnt a lot from already. Working with two people who are both very different to me has highlighted the value of diversity when it comes to teamwork. Each of us contributes new ideas that we wouldn’t have thought of otherwise and having the three of us allows for deeper discussions and richer outcomes. We have really learnt to appreciate that ‘more minds are better than one’, and that is something I will always carry forward in my professional life.

We have also run a prototype program with groups of student leaders from university and reflecting on these

sessions has reminded me of how I reflect on and refine my teaching practice. Planning and facilitating a learning experience for other people, whether they are adults or children, requires a whole lot of empathy for your audience. It is also a constant process that will never end. My practice, although ever improving, will always be under construction. That’s something that is reflected in both my school teaching and with ALL IN.

Finally, my favourite part of empowering young people is all the a-ha! moments I get to witness. Whether they are Year 12s or Year 6s, learning maths or leadership, these revelations are so

special and always remind me of my personal ‘why’. Teaching and being a part of ALL IN on the side is the perfect parallel as I get to see students’ grow from small people with big dreams to empowered changemakers who are ready to make an impact.

Stay tuned for upcoming updates as we are currently working on a potential collaboration between ALL IN and Penrhos College!

Alisha McMullen Penrhos College Junior School teacher and ALL IN Co-Founder

THE TRIUMPH OF THE NEW Junior School

VISION

It is with great excitement that we share that Penrhos College has been shortlisted as an excellence awardee for the Australian Education Awards 2023, in the category Primary School of the Year (NonGovernment). The award’s criteria are based on a consistent high standard of teaching, rigorous professional learning, strong communication, effective management, and a commitment to innovation. It is an incredible achievement to be named a finalist in this category, and truly highlights the success of the Junior School’s vision.

The new Junior School vision was launched in 2022 and was formed from the voice of our students and parent community. In fact, a Year 2 student developed what is now our motto in the whole Junior School – ‘Love Grows Here’. This recognises our focus on positive, loving relationships for all members of our school community. This new philosophy and vision around the education of our students has led to a significant increase in enrolments and strengthened our pedagogy from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6.

The vision has been led by our Head of Junior School, Wayne Revitt, who brings significant professional experience along with a community-focus, and interest in collaboration and advocacy. Wayne is a past President of the Independent Public Schools Heads Association (IPSHA) WA and President of the National IPSHA Board. He was also the inaugural ViceChairperson for the WA Chapter of the Positive Education Schools Association (PESA) and is co-founder and the Chairperson of the Kids Are Kids Therapy and Education Centre. With Wayne leading the way in the Junior School, and his priority set on wellbeing - the new vision soared.

While all four of our Penrhos College commitments resonate strongly within the Junior School, there are two in particular that form the basis of what we do;

FIND THE FUN (Wonder, Joy, Optimism) and BE A FORCE FOR GOODDD (Love, Lead, Unite)

These commitments put our students at the centre of everything we do.

The Junior School staff have played an imperative role in facilitating the new vision and commitments. Our staff provide love and care to create an enjoyable, stimulating, and rewarding learning environment for our students. The focus on love and belonging fades any anxiety and enables students’ executive functioning to flow; so that their working memory, problem solving ability and creativity can develop to their full potential. In fact, research shows that in an allgirls environment, girls tend to take more risks, are more comfortable with making mistakes, and are more engaged in their learning. At Penrhos, our students take on leadership roles, explore non-traditional courses, and act as role models for their peers.

Our students are free to be themselves, and to grow and mature in a nurturing environment where they feel supported and safe.

As part of vision in the Junior School, three programs have been developed under the banner of the ‘Strength of the Red Dragon’; ‘Dragon Explorers’ to build grit and resilience, ‘Dragon X’ to extend opportunities after the regular school day and the ‘Dragon Quest’ – a quest of character.

DRAGON EXPLORERS

Dragon Explorers focuses on the development of core character strengths by introducing challenges that take students a little outside their comfort zone, to help discover their inner strength – the strength of the Red Dragon.

DRAGON QUEST

The central aim of Dragon Quest is to identify and reward students for doing the right thing; being kind, persevering at a task, demonstrating a growth mindset and learning from mistakes, caring for others – all character strengths not necessarily based on being the best at sport, or academics, but being a good person and thinking beyond ourselves.

DRAGON X

Dragon X is an extended school day for Penrhos students and provides greater flexibility for our busy Penrhos parents. The program is based in the Junior School Library and includes a comprehensive range of co-curricular sporting, dance, and cultural activities.

These three programs are designed to build strong young women; real women, ready to take on the world and make a positive difference for themselves and for others.

Moving forward

Our recent shortlisting in the Australian Education Awards truly reinforces the success of our new Junior School vision. A vision that builds strong young women, with a positive mindset, compassion for others and the motivation to make the world a better place for all.

When asked about the vision for the Junior School over the next five to 10 years, Wayne shared,

“There is no doubt there are significant challenges this generation of students will face. My optimism comes from what we are referring to as the ‘Strength of the Red Dragon’; the holistic approach we are taking to the education of our students at Penrhos. This includes an ongoing strong and rigorous, academic program. But more than ever, we are focusing on attributes that can be taught outside of traditional thinking in education; being a balanced thinker, being caring, being a risk-taker. We know from our early learning experts that we need to honour the curiosity and wonder our little people display. We believe this wonder and curiosity – the sheer excitement that comes with learning an amazing fact about our world – should flow through our entire lives”.

DR GLENDA PARKIN Vale

It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dr Glenda Parkin, a remarkable individual and former Principal of Penrhos College (2008 – 2010). Glenda was a beloved former principal and esteemed educator in our community. She passed away on the 23rd of May after courageously living with dementia for 13 years.

Glenda was an extraordinary woman with remarkable intellect and a great sense of humour. Her unwavering dedication to the field of education was evident in every aspect of her work. She tirelessly strived to create an inspiring and nurturing environment for her students, shaping countless young minds and preparing them for a brighter future.

During her tenure as Principal of Penrhos College, Glenda brought about significant positive changes in our educational institution, as she did within the institutions she previously served. At Penrhos, her visionary leadership defined a new Penrhos

strategic plan in 2010, focusing on a holistic approach to education that encompassed the mind, heart, body, and spirit. Her impact will be felt for generations to come.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Glenda possessed an indescribable warmth and compassion that touched the lives of those around her. The College community was deeply saddened when she was diagnosed with Benson’s syndrome and retired from her role as Principal. However, she continued her great work as a passionate dementia advocate and a voice for others. Her boundless generosity and spirit of giving will always be remembered.

As we mourn the loss of Glenda, let us remember her with fondness and gratitude. We extend our deepest sympathies to her husband Bronte, children Cameron and Lachlan, family friends, and all those whose lives she touched. May her memory serve as a source of inspiration, and may her legacy continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she influenced.

Vale

DR TOM ROWLEY

Dr Tom Rowley worked as an English teacher at Penrhos College from April 1998 until his retirement in April 2011. Tom was a highly respected member of the Penrhos College community teaching across Middle and Secondary School. Former Principal, Meg Melville, shared her memories of working with Tom during his tenure at the College.

“Tom had a wonderful, warm and very wicked sense of humor. He was a passionate Teacher of English and Literature and brought his wealth of knowledge and experience to his students. He loved teaching his senior classes and the middle years classes and always had time for his students. He brought his teaching to his students through storytelling, and they loved it. He had a strong sense of college and community and embraced all the dress-up and celebratory days. He cared for his students and his colleagues and he and his great buddy, the late Cathy Bradstreet, made a great team, especially in checking in on colleagues.”

We empower positive rebels to lead the way. We ignite and guide courageous, curious and passionate rebels who challenge convention.

DIG SET SPIKE

Penrhos is proud to announce that four of our recent graduates have earnt themselves a place in the prestigious Volleyball Australia Women’s Volleyroos team; 11 of our alumni and current students have been selected to represent Volleyball WA in the U19 and 23 National Titles; and one alumni has been selected in the Developing Australian Volleyroos Beach Program.

Australian Volleyroos: Sarah Burton (Class of 2020), Cassie Dodd (Class of 2021), Ella Schabort (Class of 2022) and Alexia Zammit (Class of 2022)

Volleyball WA U19: Charlotte Shillington (Year 11), Jolie Du Plessis (Year 11), Rosie Alchin (Year 11), Tara Jorgensen (Year 10), Ava Sutton (Year 12), Jennifer Parker (Year 12)

Volleyball WA U23: Alexia Zammit (Class of 2022), Cassie Dodd (Class of 2021), Ella Schabort (Class of 2022), Samantha Shillington (Class of 2021), Sarah Burton (Class of 2020)

Developing Australian Volleyroos Beach Program: Elizabeth Alchin (Class of 2022)

Success FOR PENRHOS VOLLEYBALLERS

Head of Health and Physical Education and Volleyball Coach, Kenrick Armitage said:

“There are many times as a teacher and coach when you just need to stop and appreciate the joys of seeing students achieve their goals.

These accomplishments fill me with pride and reinforce my passion for girls’ education and sports. Witnessing these students reach such heights through their hard work and dedication is truly rewarding.

They have demonstrated resilience, discipline, and teamwork, both on and off the court!”

The success of Penrhos volleyball inevitably comes down to our incredible students and staff who want nothing more than to develop a love for the sport and build upon a very successful and positive culture developed by the students and staff who have come before.

Teaching the technical aspects of volleyball is only part of the goal, showing our girls from a young age that attending practices, having a hard-working and positive attitude, while being an incredible team player can build a love for the sport that is unmatched.

Ella Schabort (Class of 2022) said “Penrhos played a vital role in introducing me to volleyball, without it I would never have been down this pathway and achieved the things I have today. I was introduced to Volleyball by Mr Armitage in Junior School and when I moved into Secondary School, I began to love the sport. Mr Ruggiero encouraged me to join a development program run by Volleyball WA, while still

training at Penrhos. It led onto the WA under 15s girls’ team, and even travelling to Melbourne to play for Penrhos at the National Schools Cup.”

Having such a wide variety of opportunities to not only train and learn volleyball through school, but to also partake in major competitions on an inter-state level during Secondary School, opens doors that many could only dream of.

We asked the newest Australian Volleyroo, Alexia Zammit (Class of 2022), if she could give any advice to younger Penrhos students, and she came back with some inspiring words: “Fall in love with the process of progression and don’t aim for perfection. It is the small jumps in your volleyball career that will eventually lead you to your goal. Every tiny bit of progress you make will get you so much closer to what you want to achieve. You will go through some difficult moments like not getting selected for a team, and it will take time, but if you love the sport and put in the work you can achieve as much as you want to.”

Playing at high competition levels while studying at Penrhos have been a common theme for many of these Alumni, and thanks to the support and care from the teaching staff and coaches at Penrhos, it truly prepares them for their future goals.

Since graduating, Elizabeth Alchin (Class of 2022) has moved to Brisbane to train at the National Beach Volleyball High Performance Program, which is a fulltime program that prepares you to play on the world tour… but that’s not all. Liz is also studying a Bachelor of Biomedical Science and a Bachelor of Science at the University of Queensland.

Congratulations to all these exceptional Alumni who have achieved so much already. Your success inspires the entire Penrhos College community and serves as a testament to your dedication and passion!

ENDEAVOUR AWARD Meg Melville

The Meg Melville Alumni Endeavour Award provides financial support for a group or individual from Year 12 to achieve something extraordinary for others after graduation. Sarah Shipman was the 2021 recipient and shares her story below.

What are some memories of your time at Penrhos?

I started at Penrhos in Year 2, transferring from brother school, Wesley College. During this time, I made many beautiful memories with friends who I continue to keep in touch with. An early unforgettable memory was nurturing silkworms and watching them transform into moths within our classroom.

Several exciting experiences from Secondary School took place in the Science Department; we imploded metal tubs, built go-karts, blew up rockets, made liquid nitrogen ice cream and more. However, the 2019 Music Tour to Europe was by far the most incredible experience during my time at Penrhos. I performed on the cello in the symphony orchestra and sung as a member of the choir in theatres, churches and even caves, all over Europe. We also visited musical monuments such as the home of Beethoven and where the famous musical, the Sound of Music was set.

What inspired you to apply for the Meg Melville Endeavour Award and choose this project in particular?

Meg Melville was an inspiration to myself and all the Penrhos girls, and like her, I wanted to have a positive impact on young minds.

At the age of 3, I was diagnosed with Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD) and had to attend speech therapy. From a young age, I had hearing difficulties and had to develop strategies to overcome the challenges this presented in school. It wasn’t until the later years of high school that I was confident to speak about my struggles and found out that I was not alone in this experience.

When I was in Year 11, the COVID-19 pandemic had arisen, and sign language interpreters had become more widely recognised with their increasing appearance on the news. I was shocked that it had taken a global pandemic for people to realise that all groups must have equal access to the news. This brought me to learn that over 5% of the Australian population have a long-term hearing disorder. It also opened my eyes to the idea that sign language should become more available to students.

Furthermore, I have a passion for languages and communication. During Secondary School I studied ATAR Italian and learnt Indonesian in Junior School, whilst also taking German outside of school. I also took part in debating throughout Secondary School and jumped at any public speaking opportunity that came along.

The Meg Melville Endeavour Award provided me with an opportunity to raise awareness of deaf and hard of hearing people and their culture. I want to be the person who I needed when I was young and give girls the confidence to speak up and turn their challenges into opportunities. I want to empower young girls and open their eyes to a new language that isn’t yet widely available to students.

With my love of learning languages, hearing experiences and will to inspire others, the Meg Melville Endeavour Award was the catalyst I needed to begin my Auslan journey.

How did you implement the project?

In 2022, I took an Auslan Key sign class. I took note of their teaching methods, and structures and realised that Auslan could easily be taught in a classroom environment. Hence, I began the research into implementing an Auslan class at Penrhos. Additionally, I created a document for teachers with little ways they could change their classroom to be more inclusive of students who were hard of hearing. I used my own school experience and understanding of the College to create individualised ideas that would improve students’ learning experiences. For example, ensuring PA announcements did not occur over lunch and recess times when girls could not hear it over the background noise and ensuring recorded zoom lessons included a transcript.

During Term 2 of 2023, my Auslan program became official with the assistance of Bernadette Pangrazio, Director of Operations and CoCurricular, Alumni Committee mentor Gina Cacho, and Caroline Jenkins, Community Engagement Coordinator.

On Mondays after school an Auslan teacher from Signpedia taught girls from Year 7-10 the basics of sign language ranging from numbers, people, places, instructions, time, food, and more.

Upon completion of the program, I made the girls a notebook with the word ‘dream’ finger spelled onto it to leave them a reminder of their incredible achievement and to encourage them to continue their Auslan learning. I also created individualised certificates to award them for their continued hard work and growth.

enrolled - I was elated by how many had signed up. Over time I came to know many of them individually and am so proud of them all.

Do you have a message for our current students?

I would encourage students to apply for the Meg Melville Endeavour Award. It provides leadership experience and is such a rewarding program. For future applying Year 12s, I recommend finding something you are passionate about and have a personal connection to. Choose an idea that can help others in a way that you will enjoy.

What have you gained from this experience?

The experience provided me with a newfound appreciation for communication and the different forms in which languages can take. It was wonderful learning from Marie who shared her experiences as a deaf individual and discussing with interpreters how they came upon this career. I learnt that many interpreters start in healthcare courses and are introduced to Auslan by patients, colleagues, and mentors. It was insightful to hear their stories and I learnt that two different careers can often be merged and transform over time.

The experience has also assisted in the development of my organisational, leadership, problem solving and teamwork skills, allowing me to discover what I want to pursue, and how to develop my passions to help others. Furthermore, it provided me time to get to know all the amazing girls who

Take advantage of this incredible opportunity. The Meg Melville Endeavour Award has opened my career and provided me with valuable networking skills. I have enjoyed every single minute of it.

Where to from here?

I am currently studying a Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science majoring in Medical Imaging at Curtin. I hope to get a Postgraduate degree in sonography and use these skills to provide ultrasound diagnostic imaging. In the future I plan to continue learning Auslan and discover signs specific to healthcare to further incorporate sign language into my career.

I plan to speak openly about my experiences, and I hope to inspire others to learn Auslan and continue learning skills which can assist deaf patients.

NATIONAL INDIGENOUSbasketball

TOURNAMENT 2023

Penrhos College is thrilled to share that Year 9 students, GRACE DIMER and MICHELLE NINYETTE were recently selected to represent Western Australia for the U14s National Indigenous Basketball Tournament. After a sixweek rigorous selection process, attending multiple training camps which included coaching from professional American basketball coaches, and many meetings, the girls made their way to the Gold Coast in May to compete.

Showing fierce competition on the court and contributing to every game, the girls helped bring their team to victory, taking home the gold medal for Western Australia.

Both Grace and Michelle participated in the whole process from initial try outs, attending the media day to receive their state uniforms and press photo shoots – a full, professionallevel experience!

The theme of this year’s competition was ‘Own your story’ and focussed on culture and connection. Grace said that a significant moment for her was learning the cultural dances for the Opening Ceremony, adding that during the Torres Strait Islanders’ dance “it was incredible, you could even feel the ground shaking”

The girls also had the opportunity to participate in many cultural workshops, team building exercises and sessions that bonded them with students across the country. A highlight session for the girls was called ‘Her time to play’ which was an insightful discussion panel with International Player Natalia Andre, Australian Basketballer Abby Cubillo, Aunty Kay Zaro OAM, Memorie Taylor and Mel Cooper OLY.

Grace and Michelle were also excited to attend a keynote session from NBA player, Patty Mills where he spoke about how to own your story and stay grounded. This session really helped the girls calm down before the competition and reminded them to stay in control of the game. Afterwards, he wrote an individual letter to each participant, which felt so surreal.

Western Australia was also the only team who painted up for the Grand Final. Grace said it really gave them all more confidence and they took to the court feeling really proud!

We spoke to Grace about her highlights and key takings from the competition, she said

“I think the Indigenous Basketball Association is great because a lot of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander kids struggle to fit in, and it provides a strong platform to help us achieve our dreams.

The sportsmanship we learnt was important. When we were playing a team that had less experience, our coach gave us special rules such as not blocking when they drive and no stealing the ball, and to help them up if they get knocked down. This meant that even though we won, they had a better chance against us and scored the highest number of points across the tournament.

When they announced Western Australia as the winner, I felt so happy and so relieved. Last year we got into the semi-finals but lost which was heartbreaking. When it was official, I ran to my friend who I have played WABL with growing up, I knew it meant just as much to her because we had always been second!”

Photos courtesy of Indigenous Basketball WA

WINTER REFLECTIONS

This Term in Chapel we’ve been considering the topic of Reconciliation. In the Junior School we thought about ‘friendship fires’ and how we can be peacemakers in our everyday lives and the Secondary School took some time out to think about making peace as a nation. I was surprised by the way the story of a first century tax collector named Zacchaeus spoke to both levels.

Zacchaeus is most famous for being short. He wanted to see Jesus but wasn’t able to do so because he couldn’t see over the crowd. But the crowd who wouldn’t let him through looked down on him not because of his stature but because of his occupation. As a Jewish man, Zacchaeus was considered a traitor for collecting revenue for the colonial power of Rome, who ruled over Israel with an iron fist. More than that, we’re told he was wealthy. Tax collectors gained their wealth by the process of ‘tax farming’, using Roman military intimidation to extort as much as they could from their fellow Israelites and only passing on to Rome what was required. They resembled modern day mafia bosses more than employees of the Australian Taxation Department.

Zacchaeus finds a way to see Jesus, climbing a tree and waiting for him to pass. When Jesus stops and invites himself to Zacchaeus’ house, the crowd complains. How could Jesus teach about justice and judgment and then befriend a ‘sinner’ who no upright Jew would associate with? Jesus of course, had a habit of this. He seemed to make a point of accepting the marginalised and outcast. Moved by Jesus’ acceptance and forgiveness, Zacchaeus announced, “I will give half of my property to the poor. And I will now pay back four times as much to everyone I have ever cheated.” His offer of restitution is an example to those of us who have accumulated wealth illegitimately and showed an earnest desire to be reconciled with those he had wronged.

Growing up in South Africa during Apartheid, Rory Steyn was as closely aligned to a colonial system as

Zacchaeus was. Serving as a bodyguard to Afrikaner President F. W. de Klerk, Rory viewed Nelson Mandela as a terrorist and was deeply suspicious of what his presidency would bring. After his election, Rory was surprised when Mandela called his security staff together, including white officers from the former regime, and told them that they would be able to keep their jobs. In fact, Mandela explained, he needed all of them to work together as an example of his unity government and that he intended to lead the country for the sake of all South Africans irrespective of their colour or their past. What changed Rory’s heart was the way Mandela then proceeded to befriend every member of his team, learning their names, their stories and the names of their partners and children. His security team went on to be a vanguard – people of all colours working, eating, relaxing and sharing life together where once they had fought.

In 2017, 250 Aboriginal leaders issued the Uluru Statement from the Heart. Like Jesus, who offered acceptance to an outcast tax collector and Mandela, who gave friendship to a man who had opposed his cause, those involved have invited all Australians to “Makarrata” – a coming together after a struggle.

This year is the year we’ll vote on a proposed First Nations Voice to Parliament. The Uluru Statement presents this as one step in a wider program, one where truth is acknowledged, and agreements are made.

It’s important for all of us to consider how we can be part of reconciliation and educate ourselves about the various perspectives before the upcoming vote. There will be many paths towards reconciliation and I encourage you to consider how you wish to play a part.

Whether it’s in the everyday of seeking peace in our workplaces and homes or on the scale of acknowledging a nation’s past, Jesus invites us to come together after a struggle. “Sometimes it falls on a generation to be great”. May we be that generation.

Centenarian PORTRAIT PROJECT THE

In 2022, Penrhos College had six Year 11 students participate in an extraordinary art project where they were partnered with a centenarian, with the focus on creating a meaningful portrait of them.

This intergenerational initiative formed by ‘Embraced –socially driven arts’ has connected 465 centenarians with 465 teenagers from across Australia.

Our participants included Mietta Bevilaqua, Ellen King, Daisy Kinsoe, Matilda Slatter, Alisha Teguh and Claire Tran. All students were partnered with local West Australian centenarians, and for most artists it was an opportunity to meet a centenarian for the first time in their lives.

Ellen and Mrs Lee met early last year and have since formed a fond connection. Mrs Lee has had an incredible life, moving to Perth from her original birthplace, Macao, with her family.

Mrs Lee is very close with her children and they visit her often. Prior to moving into the retirement home, she was living independently (with the love and support of her family) until she turned 100. Now she is living in a local retirement home, where she enjoys daily Tai Chi, and plays Mahjong with other residents.

Ellen said that going to the retirement home and speaking with Mrs Lee made her realise that happiness is truly the key to old age. Ellen said, “The piece I created used charcoal and acrylic on wood, I incorporated hidden features including a lotus flower that represents where she is from in Macao.”

The girls had several meetings with their partner which involved interacting, interviews, storytelling and reminiscing. Beautiful relationships have evolved from this project, and the girls’ received friendships to treasure between the generations. The students had incredible conversations, and even left saying ‘it gave such a rich insight into ageing’

The idea of the project is to bridge the generational gap by starting important connections and conversations. Since the project released in 2022, we have received incredible news that Ellen King (Year 12) has been selected to feature in the National Exhibition, displayed in Canberra. Ellen’s painting was of 104-year-old, Mrs Lee.

The National Exhibition is an opportunity for Australia to highlight the diversity of its older people and shared the message that we need to deepen the intergenerational connections in our own lives.

To read more on the Centenarian Portrait Project, please head to www.embraced.com.au/centenarian-protrait-project

We forge new futures in girls’ education. We transform learning so Penrhos is recognised globally as a leader in girls’ education.

FOUNDATION PRESIDENT’S REPORT

As a current parent, I feel very fortunate that our daughters are able to enjoy the quality of education, the diversity of co-curricular activities, and the opportunity to pursue their personal interests and passions in the supportive and nurturing environment that is Penrhos College.

As past student Claire O’Brien says in the recent Scholarships and Bursaries video on our Annual Giving page;

“I couldn’t believe what Penrhos offered… Not only did I study and train hard, but I had the opportunity to travel to Canada and the USA for cross country events, as well as Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney for Nationals competitions. In Year 12 I was delighted to be elected as Sports Captain. I am now a sponsored athlete and compete in ultra marathon races nationally and internationally. Without knowing it at the time, at Penrhos I was learning life skills like discipline, persistence and teamwork that would set me up for the person I am today.”

Our current and past students often share with us their personal stories of success; success which has come as a result of courage, curiosity, passion and commitment, and how the seed of this success was sown at Penrhos.

It is near impossible to identify which child will be the one to find a breakthrough cancer treatment, be our next Olympian, an aeronautics engineer for NASA or a future Prime Minister of Australia, but it is the crucial role that opportunity, education and environment play, that sets our daughters on their journey.

The facilities which our current students enjoy, and the majority of scholarship opportunities offered, are largely the result of the generosity of earlier

generations who have invested in our daughters and their College. Our thanks go to those within our past and present community with the foresight to ‘pay it forward’ so that our current students are able to enjoy and benefit from all that Penrhos offers today.

This concept of giving and investing in the College’s future is more important than ever as we consider the everevolving world within which we, and our daughters, live.

The Penrhos College Foundation was established in 1987 to secure the future of Penrhos College and support the College’s strategic initiatives in education and opportunity to benefit current and succeeding generations of students.

The Penrhos College Foundation provides the opportunity for all in our community to play a vital role in Penrhos’ future and make a real difference for future generations. Our community sets us apart and we are immensely grateful for any and all help extended to us. We greatly appreciate those gifts, large and small, and acknowledge that every contribution is vital to the future of both our College and our students.

I encourage you to support the Foundation’s Annual Giving campaign which provides funding for the scholarships and bursaries. These scholarships make the world of

difference to a child who might not otherwise have the opportunity to enjoy all that Penrhos offers.

Gifts greater than $2 are tax deductible and go directly to supporting those students who may, one day, change the world.

My thanks as always to my colleagues on the Foundation Board, for their skills and expertise so generously shared, and the commitment to creating a brighter future for our College. Their collaborative efforts enable the planning of important school projects and initiatives that might not otherwise be possible.

Chris Gee Foundation President

PHILANTHROPY

We are pleased to announce Ra Stewart recently joined Penrhos College as the Manager of Foundation and Partnerships. Ra’s appointment represents the next step in the Foundation’s strategy to provide financial support to the school by way of philanthropy, fundraising and scoping partnership opportunities for the school.

Ra’s career started in the advertising, marketing and film production industries, working in Perth and also Melbourne for several years where she developed an interest in AFL football. On returning to Perth, Ra established her own strategic communications consultancy working for all levels of government, private equity and ASX listed companies over a period of 14 years.

Most recently, Ra has worked in the third sector, serving Royal Flying Doctor Service (Western Operations), Ronald McDonald House WA and Parkerville Children and Youth Care. Her roles in executive management have encompassed all aspects of the stakeholder engagement and philanthropic functions with a focus on stewardship, cultivation and building a business case for impact investment.

Ra is the proud mother of two gorgeous girls, number 1 cheerleader for 3 fabulous stepchildren, is happiest on or close to the ocean, and has been a oneeyed Fremantle Dockers supporter for more years than she cares to remember!

She also loves a coffee, so please reach out to Ra on stewar@penrhos.wa.edu.au to learn more about philanthropy at the College and our plans for the future.

With this important investment in our philanthropic function, the Foundation Board is committed to keeping our College community updated on our development plans and how these will be executed, ensuring Penrhos grows from strength to strength, and continues to meets the needs of current and future students.

The Foundation is seeking expressions of interest for Board Membership from those who believe in our vision and are willing to be active in supporting the goals and strategy of the Foundation Board. The Foundation - Principal relationship is a partnership and the appropriate involvement of the Foundation Board in supporting the College’s strategic vision as well as Fundraising and Philanthropy is of utmost importance.

Board Members will serve a 3-year term and be eligible for re-appointment for a further three additional terms. Board Meetings are held 6 times per year.

The Foundation is seeking expressions of interest from people who might have any of the following skills or experience:

• Investment / Financial

• Marketing/Fundraising and Philanthropy

• Legal

New Foundation Memberships will be considered by the Board with an expected commencement date later in 2023 or at the beginning of 2024.

Service on Penrhos College Foundation Board is without remuneration. For further information or to arrange a confidential discussion please contact PenrhosFoundation@penrhos.wa.edu.au

A new phase of

THE POWER OF A BROTHER SISTER SCHOOL

As seen in the Independence Magazine

Research abounds indicating healthy sibling relationships promote empathy, pro-social behaviour and academic achievement, as well as providing an incredible source of support. Principal of Penrhos College Kalea Haran, and Head of College at Wesley, Ross Barron believe this is similar to the power of a brother-sister school relationship.

When Penrhos Principal, Kalea, first arrived at her new school she felt very isolated.

“For me,” Kalea says, “moving internationally to a new city, in my first principalship felt very isolating. However, in my first week, I received a supportive and welcoming phone call from my peer at Penrhos’ brother school, Wesley College.”

“Both of our schools have a distinct personality,” says Ross, “but we look out for each other. As soon as I heard Kalea had arrived in Perth I was keen to reach out and do what I could to ensure she felt part of our shared community.”

Ross agrees. “Something I say all the time is that one of Wesley’s greatest strengths is that we are boys from Year 7 to 12. But, one of our greatest weaknesses is that we’re boys from Year 7 to 12. So, it’s really important that we have authentic relationships and collaborative opportunities with Penrhos. Our boys are taught about gender equality, gender equity and respect – but nothing beats interacting with other people to turn theory into practice.”

Traditionally brother-sister schools such as Penrhos and Wesley interacted through the long-standing tradition of ‘socials’ and dances. Kalea and Ross recognise the importance of this, but also wanted to provide more meaningful and ongoing collaboration for students from both colleges.

Ross and Kalea quickly built rapport, and fell into an almost sibling-like relationship, incorporating competitive rivalry, banter, friendship and respect. They agreed early on to work together to enhance the two school’s connections in a deep and meaningful way. “Strengthening the bond between the schools was actually one of our strategic priorities,” says Ross.

Ross and Kalea quickly built rapport, and fell into an almost sibling-like relationship, incorporating competitive rivalry, banter, friendship and respect. They agreed early on to work together to enhance the two school’s connections in a deep and meaningful way. “Strengthening the bond between the schools was actually one of our strategic priorities,” says Ross. Both Penrhos and Wesley have proud single-sex secondary schools, allowing them to each provide education for students in a unique way. However, there is a void that single-sex schools must address – the need for meaningful collaboration between genders.

“As the Principal of Penrhos College, I know my girls thrive in an all-girls environment. Our school can enhance their self-esteem and wellbeing and empower our students in an environment especially catered for them,” Kalea comments.

“However, they also benefit from learning with their male counterparts, developing confidence, empathy and understanding through energetic debates, critical questioning and inquiry. I also found my senior students longed for conversations with the boys they socially interact with about challenging conversations in pastoral areas such as relationships, protective behaviour and consent.”

From Year 7, the colleges now have a Wesley-Penrhos Collaboration Day three times a year, alternatively hosted by each school. The days include problem-solving and team building activities, including Techfun, F1 building and Art. In Years 8 – 9, the colleges have social events for students such as quiz nights and other activities. These have proved so successful that they are often paired with evening events so Wesley-Penrhos parents can also meet and greet.

According to Kalea, as a single-sex girls school, Penrhos focusses on developing a culture where students can find their voice, build confidence and have many opportunities to speak out.

“These collaborative activities with Wesley are a great opportunity to flex these skills as the students gain confidence working together respectfully in a fun, meaningful and safe environment,” she says.

Kalea and Ross agree they really enjoy observing these collaboration days, especially the activities that involve critical thinking and problem-solving.

“When I watch how the students approach the creative thinking skills needed while working together, I can see them learning

how to approach the challenges together and learn to listen and consider each other’s perspective,” says Kalea

“Especially watching them getting to know each other and build friendships. The first collaboration day of the year is a little awkward and you can see them finding their way, by the last day of the year they have developed friendships and are comfortable together.”

“There’s definitely awkwardness on the first collaboration day,” smiles Ross. “The students aren’t standoffish, but there’s a real tentativeness. By the second and third collaboration days, they’re greeting each other like old friends – chatting, blending, and acting like they’ve just been apart for minutes. It’s fascinating to watch the transition.”

The schools have now connected their Secondary Pastoral teams, who are working together to map out the curriculum so both colleges are aligned with taught themes and language. They have also brought together senior students to contribute to this planning, to ensure the student voice is heard in this process.

This year, for the first time, Penrhos and Wesley will collaborate on the delivery of an ATAR subject. Students from both schools are involved in a pilot program where Outdoor Education will be delivered through blended learning, with teachers also offered combined professional development days. The two schools have also started to look at ways they can further share resources and enhance their student experiences.

As Principals both Kalea and Ross aim to bring their staff together to share knowledge, experiences, and resources, with plans in the works to also introduce a shadow program for staff to learn from one another.

A perfect example of the close sibling relationship between the two schools, and the sense of fun Ross and Kalea share, was the recent ‘principal swap’ with each spending the day at the other’s college.

“The principal swap experience gave me a great understanding of not only the Wesley curriculum and staff but also how the school feels culturally and what happens day-to-day. This knowledge helps when Ross and I meet to catch up and think of new ideas on how we can further unite the schools,” Kalea says.

“What I really enjoyed, was sitting with various students and staff at Penrhos,” says Ross. “They told me the things they love and gave me a real insight into the heart and soul of their college. I came away with plenty of good ideas to discuss with Kalea and the team at Wesley.”

With strong agreement on the importance of a meaningful and mutually beneficial brother-sister school relationship, Kalea and Ross look forward to building on these early wins, for the benefit of students at both colleges, and their broader communities.

TWO

OUR VISION

IS

EMBRACE

We nurture timeless connections.

We foster an inclusive community that embraces character, spirit and identity.

We will build student and community connections through:

EM1 Inspiring belonging through nurturing relationships

EM2 Deepening our commitment to celebrating and amplifying alumni relationships

EM3

Establishing a Year 12+ Alumni program

CREATE

We build learning adventures for life.

We create learning adventures where Penrhosians explore their full potential.

We will grow creative learning and industry partnership opportunities through:

CR1 Commencing the implementation of a master and refurbishment plan

CR2 Developing a strategy to revolutionise personalised learning

CR3 Strengthening and further developing partnerships with universities and industry

CR4

Establishing an Honours extension program

OUR PURPOSE

SOAR

We advance a culture of learning and growth.

We elevate the skills and talents of our people in a creative, high growth learning environment.

We will empower and grow our team through:

SO1 Developing an impactful staff wellbeing program

SO2 Empowering staff to grow through a revised professional development program

SO3 Reviewing and reimagining our recruitment program

BLAZE

We empower positive rebels to lead the way.

We ignite and guide courageous, curious and passionate rebels who challenge convention. for the greater good.

We will amplify our school’s exploration, discovery and sharing through:

BL1 Strengthening student voice and activism

BL2 Establishing a ‘blaze your trail’ program

BL3 Embedding teaching of brave behaviours

BL4 Pursuing justice,reconciliation, sustainability and peace through service and advocacy

IMPACT

We forge new futures in girls’ education.

We transform learning so Penrhos is recognised globally as a leader in girls’ education.

We will empower and grow our team through:

IM1

Connecting Penrhos with the broader community and serving others

IM2 Becoming the global connector for other schools and a global ambassador for leadership and social change

IM3 Creating partnerships for forging girls’ education through a culture of giving

IM4

Maintaining financial resilience

We put our students at the centre of everything we do.

TO REVOLUTIONISE GIRLS’ EDUCATION - TO LIVE A FUTURE WITHOUT BOUNDARIES