Queenwood acknowledges the Cammeraigal people who are the traditional custodians of the land on which the School is built and we pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
All information contained in this document is correct at time of printing; all curricular and cocurricular activities are subject to change. Visit QUEENWOOD.NSW.EDU.AU for up-to-date information.
Welcome
Queenwood values the enthusiasm of the novice, the dedication of the elite performer and everything in between. We have outstanding facilities and highly qualified staff dedicating to getting the best out of every girl. The opportunities on offer allows girls to follow their passion. We pride ourselves on our extensive cocurricular program which is designed to ensure that every girl can find something that appeals to her.
Our aim is to develop in our girls the character, disposition and skills they will need to flourish in and contribute to a world of complexity and change.
With afternoon sport, weekend fixtures, House activities, clubs, camps, ensembles, trips and excursions there is something for everyone.
The benefits of being involved in cocurricular activities are numerous - learning to be a positive team member, striving for personal best, fulfilling commitments, having a sense of belonging and building friendships beyond the classroom.
Mrs Marise McConaghy Principal
Queenwood is one of a small number of schools in NSW to offer both HSC and IB pathways in Years 11 & 12. Both are excellent credentials and each girl has the opportunity to choose the style and pattern of study that best suits her individual interests and preferences. We have offered dual pathways for over 15 years and our girls have had remarkable success during that time. (Refer to our website for a summary of our results .)
There are frequent opportunities during the year to learn more about each pathway, and we provide girls and parents with tailored advice and guidance during the course of Year 10 to assist in making the choice. After completing the HSC or the IB, students are awarded an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank) which is used for entrance into Australian and overseas universities. Students wishing to study overseas can choose either the HSC or the IB and are assisted in their applications by our Careers Advisor.
About the HSC
The Higher School Certificate is the highest academic credential within the NSW school system and allows a flexible choice of subjects.
Girls must undertake a minimum of 12 units of study in Year 11. Most subjects are two units. Girls typically take 11-12 units of study in Year 12 with further subject specialisation options available.
Approximately 20 subjects are offered. English is the only compulsory subject.
About the IB
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a course of study for Years 11 & 12 that has a distinctive educational philosophy and is offered in over 140 countries.
Girls must undertake one subject from each of six categories: English Language and Literature, Language other than English, Humanities, Sciences, Mathematics and the Arts (or a second choice from Languages, Natural Science or Human Sciences).
They must also undertake additional courses and activities: Extended Essay; Community Activity Service; Theory of Knowledge.
Girls are awarded a final score out of 45.
SENIOR SCHOOL CURRICULUM
Year 7
CORE
English Mathematics
Science
History
Geography
Latin
PDHPE
Music
Visual Arts
Technology
ELECTIVES**
French or Mandarin
Year 8
CORE
English Mathematics
Science
History
Geography
PDHPE
Music
Visual Arts
Technology
ELECTIVES**
French or Mandarin
Latin or World Religions
Year 9 & 10
CORE
English Mathematics
Science
History Geography
PDHPE
ELECTIVES
Commerce
Design & Technology
Drama
French
Latin
Mandarin
Music
The Science of Design
Textiles & Design
Visual Arts
**Language choices are for two years, Years 7 & 8.
Please note curriculum offering is subject to change.
Years 11 & 12 HSC
English Extension 1
English Extension 2 (Year 12)
Advanced English
Standard English
Mathematics Extension 1
Mathematics Extension 2 (Year 12)
Advanced Mathematics
Standard Mathematics
Biology
Business Studies
Chemistry
Chinese Continuers
Chinese in Context
Music 1
Music 2
Music Extension (Year 12)
Drama Economics
French Continuers
French Extension (Year 12)
Geography
Ancient History
Modern History
History Extension (Year 12)
Health and Movement Science
Physics
Science Extension (Year 12)
Textiles & Design
Design & Technology
Visual Arts
Extension subjects may also be available for languages.
Years 11 & 12 IB
English Language & Literature
English Literature
Mathematics Applications & Interpretation
Biology
Chemistry
Economics
French
Geography
History
Latin
Mandarin
Spanish ab initio (Beginners)
Theory of Knowledge
Physics
Creativity Activity Service (CAS)
Music
Visual Arts
Environmental Systems and Societies
Please note curriculum offering is subject to change.
JUNIOR SCHOOL CURRICULUM
Kindergarten – Year 6
English
Mathematics
Science & Technology
Visual Arts*
Drama*
Music*
PDHPE*
Languages*
History
Geography
Years 3 – 6
Instrumental Music Program* Year Choirs*
*Denotes Junior School subjects taught by specialist teachers.
Please note curriculum offering is subject to change.
Queenwood is committed to providing opportunities for all students to learn effectively and experience the rewards of achievement in the face of challenge. The Learning Enhancement Department have highly qualified specialists who support and extend our students in areas of Gifted Education, Diverse Learning and EAL/D. Specialist staff work closely with classroom teachers and curriculum leaders to bring out the best in every girl. Our priority is to meet the individual learning needs of every girl within the classroom context so activities and assessments are adapted as required through close collaboration of classroom teachers and specialists. Additional assistance, extension and programs are provided beyond the classroom as required.
Book Clubs
Book Clubs offer students the opportunity to bond over their love of reading. From student lead book clubs, such as Passion for the Classics, to the Library, Lunch and Literature Club, students enjoy sharing their favourite reads with girls from all year groups.
Dungeons & Dragons Club
Dungeons and Dragons Club is a fun, immersive, fantasy based game where students take on the role of ‘Dungeon Master’ or an adventurer in exciting quests.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12
VENUE: Library
Warhammer Club
Warhammer is a tabletop battle game. Participants build and paint their 28mm miniatures and compete against each other in tabletop based ‘Lord of the Rings’ style or space style figures.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12
VENUE: Library
Learning Hub is readily available for all students, providing essential support in various academic areas. Students can receive assistance with their homework, enabling them to grasp challenging concepts and complete assignments effectively. The program includes backwards mapping to help students understand the learning goals and the skills they need to achieve them. Additionally, assessments are conducted to evaluate progress, while consolidating work reinforces knowledge retention. A key focus is also placed on enhancing executive functioning skills, such as organisation, time management, and task prioritisation, which are vital for academic success. This comprehensive support system empowers students to excel in their studies and develop essential life skills.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12
VENUE: Library Medica Room (Mon-Thurs, 3:30-4:30)
Since 2015, we have had a particular focus on literacy at Queenwood, with the QLiteracy Committee developing a school-wide vision for ensuring all girls develop a life-long passion for reading. In 2019 this program was embedded with the introduction of a timetabled reading period from Kindergarten to Year 12. The focus is on reading a physical book of fiction, which has been shown to support the greatest improvements in literacy growth and learning. Reading fiction becomes a great pleasure that supports wellbeing, especially once reading is fluent and the habit is formed.
Engagement in coding, robotics and engineering will be a huge benefit in the workplaces of the future. The Queenwood Advanced Technologies and Engineering (ATE) program allows students to engage with these areas in a non-selective, fun environment.
QUTE: Electric Vehicle Project
We continue to offer students an opportunity to rebuild a 1970s Ute and convert it to electric power. This project involves 2 workshops per week although participants are not required to attend both sessions every week. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain some real-world experience in mechanics, engineering, science and design.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 9 – 12 (via written application in Term 1)
VENUE: Art Campus
Maker Club
The Maker Club allows students to gain experience in electronics, soldering and coding. Students complete a range of small projects such as building electronic dice, a bedroom burglar alarm and a digital clock. This activity is suitable for students from Year 7 up.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12
VENUE: Library
The Science and Engineering Challenge
The Science and Engineering Challenge is a one-day competition. Students compete against other schools in fun and engaging handson activities such as designing an earthquake proof tower or building a hovercraft or bridge. This event usually runs early in Term 3 and applications open Term 2.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 9 and 10 (Science of Design students are offered places on the team as a priority)
Lego Robotics
LEGO Robotics offers students an exciting hands-on experience in engineering and coding. Participants will design and construct robots with moving parts, gears and motors, fostering creativity and problemsolving skills.
This is an excellent introduction to coding and suitable for all ages. Senior School students enter The First Lego League competition, usually held in November.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 3 & 4
VENUE: Junior School
SENIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12
VENUE: Art Campus
MiniSprint Solar Racing
MiniSprint Solar Racing requires students to design and build small racing boats and cars powered by solar panels. The vehicles are raced at the UNSW open day in September or October.
SENIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12
VENUE: Library
Note: Terms 2 & 3 only
VEX Robotics
Students learn engineering skills by building, testing and operating robots as well as designing program software. This activity helps develop problem solving and computational thinking skills, and an understanding of our mechanical world.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 5 & 6
VENUE: Junior School
SENIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12
VENUE: Art Campus
engineering@queenwood.nsw.edu.au
VISUAL ARTS
Ceramics Club
This afternoon workshop allows students in Years 7 – 9 to learn new ceramic skills and techniques in hand building and construction.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 9
VENUE: Art Campus
Digital Art Club
Digital Art Club is a judgment-free space where students discuss and present their digital artworks. It is an opportunity to obtain tips, gain inspiration as well as bond with other year groups who may have different knowledge and experience in digital artmaking.
ELIGIBILITY: All Years
VENUE: Library Media Room
Life Drawing and Mixed Media Studies (Terms 2 & 3)
Students will learn to understand the human form and anatomical structure through observation of both clothed and nude models. They will create a range of experiments and resolved artworks, which may be used as ideas for further artmaking or a portfolio for university application. This course is delivered by practising artist and experienced teacher, Pina Bartolo.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 10 & 11
VENUE: Art Campus CONTACT
art@queenwood.nsw.edu.au
A series of lectures from distinguished Australians seeking to stimulate public understanding and discourse on topics of importance to our community. Previous speakers include The Hon Margaret Beazley AO, Governor of NSW, The Hon Margaret Stone AO FAAL, Inspector-General of Security and Intelligence and Lieutenant General David Morrison AO, Chief of Army (retired).
PROGRAM AND BOOKINGS: queenwood.nsw.edu.au/About/balmorallectures
COMPULSORY: Years 9 – 11 to attend at least one CONTACT community@queenwood.nsw.edu.au
The Gifted and Talented Program has been developed to support high potential and gifted students from Kindergarten to Year 12. The Gifted and Talented specialists work with girls individually and in small groups to support their academic development. In addition, a range of external competitions and programs are available for students wishing to challenge themselves beyond the curriculum.
Da Vinci Decathlon
The da Vinci Decathlon is an academic inter-school competition run in the spirit of an Olympic Decathlon. Teams of eight compete against other schools in disciplines ranging from Code Breaking to Art & Poetry. The tasks are designed to be challenging with a particular emphasis on higher order thinking and problem solving.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 5 & 6 via academic profile and teacher recommendation
SENIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 11 via academic profile and teacher recommendation
GATEway 8
GATEway8 is an inter-school academic challenge targeted at high potential learners. Tasks are designed to stimulate the eight multiple intelligences outlined by Howard Gardner.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 5 & 6 via academic profile and teacher nomination
Future Problem Solving
Future Problem Solving is a researchbased academic program that teaches problem solving strategies, collaboration, critical and creative thinking and effective communication. The interdisciplinary approach helps develop ethical leadership skills and provides a unique opportunity for students to learn and apply essential life skills in the 21st century.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 5 & 6 (noncompetitive) via academic profile and teacher recommendation
SENIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7-11 (teams of four) via academic profile and teacher recommendation
Australian Computational and Linguistics Olympiad
The Australian Computational Linguistics Olympiad contest is held in two rounds. Participants work in teams of four on a range of fascinating language-analysis problems.
SENIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7-12 (teams of four) via academic profile and teacher recommendation
Ethics Olympiad Teams of five compete against other schools from NSW in a series of Ethics Olympiad heats. Teams are scored according to criteria that reward clear, concise and respectful discourse in response to questions about ethical cases.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 5 & 6 via academic profile and teacher recommendation
Model UN
This competition takes the form of a mock session of the United Nations Security Council. Teams of two debate, amend and vote on a prepared resolution from the perspective of their assigned nation. The students judged the most effective diplomats proceed to the next round.
SENIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 9-12 via academic profile and teacher recommendation
Sydney Philosothon
The Centre for Critical Thinking and Ethics along with the Philosophy in Schools Association of NSW host teams of students from across the state to engage in a series of collaborative philosophical discussions. By engaging in philosophical inquiry with peers, students have the opportunity to enhance their critical thinking skills, employ their capacity for reasoned argumentation, and broaden their understanding of diverse perspectives.
SENIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 9-11 via academic profile and teacher recommendation
Chess
This club enables students to develop logical thinking skills and concentration by learning the game of chess. Students are invited to compete in competitions including the Interschool Chess Challenge.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Kindergarten to Year 6
SENIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12
Kids LIT Quiz
Two teams of four compete against other schools from NSW in a fastpaced, literature-themed competition, with the opportunity to advance to state and national finals. Teams face 100 questions on children’s literature divided into ten categories, which vary each year.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: Years 5 & 6 via teacher recommendation and selection process
Bear Pit Public Speaking Competition
Two students deliver a prepared speech at NSW Parliament House. They are scored based on criteria that emphasise content and public speaking skills.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
ELIGIBILITY: One student from Stage 2 and one from Stage 3, based on the outcome of the Q Public Speaking Competition
DANCE
Dance engages students in lessons that are progressive, inclusive, developmental, creative and include mindfulness techniques. Dancers will participate in termby-term gradings to inspire proactive achievement of skill level while at the same time embracing and encouraging their inner creative to explore movement in a safe and structured environment. During semester two, classes focus on preparing items for the end of year dance concert. Company classes are auditioned and are entered into a variety of performances throughout the year.
Comets Jazz
ELIGIBILITY: Kindergarten
VENUE: Galaxy Theatre
Rockets Jazz
ELIGIBILITY: Year 1
VENUE: Galaxy Theatre or MPH
Meteors Jazz
ELIGIBILITY: Year 2 (30 students max)
VENUE: Galaxy Theatre
Nova & Saturn Jazz
ELIGIBILITY: Yr 3 Nova, Yr 4 Saturn
VENUE: Galaxy Theatre or MPH
Capella Jazz
ELIGIBILITY: Years 5 & 6
VENUE: Galaxy Theatre or MPH
Elektra Dance Company
ELIGIBILITY: Years 1 & 2, by audition
VENUE: MPH
Orion Dance Company
ELIGIBILITY: Years 3 - 6, by audition
VENUE: MPH
Stella Dance Company
ELIGIBILITY: Years 4 – 6, by audition
VENUE: MPH
Senior Dance: Pandoka Company, Luna Company
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12, by audition
VENUE: Astra Theatre
Senior Dance Luna Ensemble
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12, for beginners or for fun
VENUE: Astra Theatre/Balmoral Scout hall
CONTACT
junior.sport@queenwood.nsw.edu.au
senior.sport@queenwood.nsw.edu.au
These challenging and highly rewarding activities involves the art of constructing and presenting a formal argument to an opposing team, adjudicator and audience. Students are required to use their general knowledge, skills of reasoning and higher order thinking processes to consider contemporary issues relevant to modern society. Specialist debating coaches work with the debating teams each week providing insight and expertise to support the students in developing their debating skills. Coaches also work to support students in the Festival of Speech topic choices and presentations.
Junior School ISDA Competition
ELIGIBILITY: Years 5 & 6
VENUE: Various schools in Sydney
IPSHA Competition
ELIGIBILITY: Years 5 & 6
VENUE: Various schools in Sydney
Senior School ISDA Competition
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12 during Term 1 and 2
VENUE: Various schools in Sydney
Archdale Competition
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12 during Term 2 and 3
VENUE: Various girls schools in Sydney
Public Speaking Competitions
Queenwood competes in a variety of State level competitions such as Rostrum Voice of Youth, the Legacy Junior Public Speaking Award, the Plain English Speaking Award, the Sydney Eisteddfod, the Northern Beaches Eisteddfod and the prestigious IGSA Festival of Speech.
IGSA Festival of Speech
The IGSA Festival of Speech is open to girls from Years 7 – 11 and offers an important focal point for skill development, personal expression, teamwork and friendship. 27 schools participate and students have the opportunity to perform in the areas of drama, debating, poetry, prose readings, current affairs and religious and ethical questions.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 11
Mock Trial
The Law Society of New South Wales’ Mock Trial competition has been running since 1981. Open to schools across NSW for students in Years 10 & 11, the program introduces students to the NSW judicial system by providing practical experience of the running of a court case in a true-to-life adversarial setting. Students learn advocacy, debating and problem solving skills. The Mock Trial Competition has four preliminary rounds each year covering Term 1 to 3.
Mock Mediation
Mock Mediation is an initiative of The Law Society of New South Wales assisted by volunteers from the legal profession. Mock Mediation is a structured problem-solving process for Years 9 & 10 students designed to encourage the parties to identify the issue in dispute, consider options and work towards an agreement that will meet the needs of all parties.
The Mock Mediation Competition has four preliminary rounds each year covering Term 1 to 3.
jsdebating@queenwood.nsw.edu.au
ssdebating@queenwood.nsw.edu.au
publicspeaking@queenwood.nsw.edu.au
Step into the captivating world of Drama and discover an extraordinary cocurricular program that empowers girls to unlock their full theatrical potential. Our esteemed Q Drama Department offers an immersive and challenging experience that nurtures talent, hones skills, and fosters exceptional teamwork. Within the walls of our state-of-the-art Drama Studio, students embark on a journey of self-discovery, cultivating not only their individual confidence but also a profound sense of collaboration. As the curtains rise on high-stakes performances, our students shine as they unite their talents to create unforgettable moments. At Queenwood, Drama isn’t just a cocurricular activity; it’s a cornerstone of our girls’ lives, leaving them with cherished memories that endure long after they graduate.
Queenwood is celebrated for its highly professional musical productions, usually held biennially. In collaboration with Shore School, we provide an opportunity for students passionate about musical theatre to take on lead male roles in these performances. There are a variety of ways for students to be involved with a range of roles available; leads, chorus, dance chorus, and backstage crew who operate lights and sound with industry professionals. Recent productions have included Mamma Mia!, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and Legally Blonde.
Queenwood offers a unique Drama Tour to New York, usually offered every three years, allowing students to immerse themselves in the world of theatre.
Company Q
Welcome to Company Q, where dedication and talent meet the stage. Designed exclusively for Year 9 and 10 students, admission to this Drama company is by audition only, and it demands a full-year commitment. Prepare to shine as you take part in two mainstage productions (previous productions include The Crucible, Puffs, Clue, The Wolves, and A Country Christmas Story) honing your skills and leaving your mark in the spotlight. Join us in the pursuit of excellence in Drama at Company Q.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 9 & 10
VENUE: Drama Studio
Junior School Drama
Ensemble (Vesper and Aurora)
The Junior School Drama Ensemble is an exclusive program available to students in Years 5 and 6 by audition only. Sessions are held every Monday or Thursday morning from 7:15am8:00am.
Guided by our experienced Drama Staff, students will enhance their acting abilities, hone their character development, and rehearse scripted works, culminating in a performance on the Queenwood stage.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 5 & 6 by audition only
VENUE: Junior School Drama Studio
Junior School Drama Club
The Junior School Drama Club offers an exciting opportunity for Years 5 and 6. This fun and dynamic weekly workshop is open to everyone and aims to build self-confidence and enhance acting skills. Sessions are held every Monday or Thursday morning from 7:15am-8:00am. Under the guidance of our experienced Drama Staff, participants will enhance their acting abilities, and engage in improvisation, playbuilding and scene creation. The club focuses on creative activities aimed at developing skills and elevating participants’ performances to the next level.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 5 & 6. Numbers are capped - First in first served
VENUE: Junior School Drama Studio
Drama Tour (USA)
The Drama Department offers a Drama Tour to the USA (New York and Los Angeles) every 3 years. On the tour the students will immerse themselves in the vibrant theatre culture through workshops at some of the world’s best acting schools, see Broadway productions and experience other cultural landmarks.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 11 & 12
Drama students
The Elizabethans
Introducing The Elizabethans – an exclusive opportunity for our Year 7 and 8 students to dive headfirst into the world of Drama! In this unique ensemble, girls will dedicate one enriching morning session to the art of Drama throughout the year. Limited spaces are available, and registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Led by our talented directors, participants will showcase their skills in two thrilling live performances, captivating an eager audience with their artistic prowess. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary journey – join “The Elizabethans” and let your dramatic talents shine! Numbers are limited.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 & 8
VENUE: Drama Studio
The Award is a youth self-development program for all young people. It is noncompetitive and encourages young people to set and achieve goals at a level appropriate to their needs.
There are four sections that must be completed for a young person to qualify for an Award: Community Service, Skills, Recreation and Expedition. These provide an opportunity for students to acquire and develop skills, initiative and self-esteem which will help them become more confident members of the community. The Duke of Edinburgh scheme is highly regarded by many employers.
Three Award levels are available - Bronze, Silver and Gold. Year 9 students may start at the Bronze level. To obtain the Bronze Award students must complete the following sections:
Service
At least three months at an average of one hour a week of voluntary Community Service. Complete an appropriate course of specialised training such as a First Aid course.
Adventurous Journey
Complete training and a practise trip and then an adventurous journey with overnight camping.
Skills
At least three months at an average of one hour a week of a cultural or social activity must be pursued leading to a deeper knowledge of the subject and the attainment of a reasonable degree of skill. Examples include: dance; a musical instrument; drama; printmaking.
Physical Recreation
At least three months at an average of one hour a week participation in a physical activity, leading to some improvement in that activity.
In addition
A further three months at an average of one hour a week must be completed in either the Service, Skill or Physical Recreation sections.
ELIGIBILITY: From Year 9
Note: Students can commence Bronze as soon as they turn 14.
LEARN MORE: dukeofed.com.au
Music forms an integral part of the overall curriculum offered at Queenwood and is available to students of all abilities, with opportunity for high potential learners to be enriched. Our ensemble program incorporates choral, orchestral and band programs. In addition there are a number of instrumental and chamber ensemble groups available to cater for a full range of abilities from beginner students through to our most talented musicians.
Preschool Music Group
Available for children who are scheduled to attend Kindergarten in the following year. 40 minute classes for children to sing, listen, play and move to develop key skills including a love of music.
WHERE: Junior School
Cocurricular Music
Lessons
Queenwood has a very extensive individual tutoring program in place. Students are able to have cocurricular music lessons throughout the school day on various instruments, as well as voice, composition and musicianship.
Ensemble Program
SENIOR SCHOOL
Choirs
Senior Choir
Astra Singers (auditioned)
Galaxy Singers (auditioned)
Large Instrumental Ensembles
Symphony Orchestra
Chamber Strings (advanced players)
String Orchestra
Symphonic Wind Ensemble
Stage Band (auditioned)
Other Instrumental Ensembles and
Chamber Music groups
Chamber Ensembles
Cello Ensemble
Orion Strings (string quartet program)
Guitar Ensemble
Flute Ensemble
Saxophone Ensemble
Brass Ensemble
Percussion Ensemble
JUNIOR SCHOOL
As part of their classroom music experience, every girl in Kindergarten to Year 6 sings in a dedicated choir. Year Choirs operate for Kindergarten to Year 2, while Stage Choirs run every week in Years 3 – 6 (Stage 2 Choir for Years 3 – 4; Stage 3 Choir for Years 5 – 6).
Every girl in Years 3 – 6 plays an instrument in the fully differentiated Instrumental Music Program. There are four progressive levels of classes and ensembles in either a string or band instrument pathway. This program includes: Level Classes, Stalley Strings, Aurora Strings, Nova Band and Sirius Band.
The following cocurricular music ensembles are also available in Junior School:
Choirs
Junior Choir
Medway Singers (auditioned)
Queen Street Singers (auditioned)
Instrumental Ensembles and Chamber Music Groups
Swing Band
Junior Chamber String Ensemble
Paganini Violin Ensemble
Boccherini Cello and Bass Ensemble
Flute Ensemble
Clarinet Ensemble
Saxophone Ensemble
Brass Ensemble
SOCIAL JUSTICE
We encourage our girls at every level to contribute in thought, word and deed; responding to the vulnerable and marginalised with respect; speaking out with courage; and taking action in their service. Building this understanding begins with promoting empathetic relationships. Our students are actively involved in not just raising funds but learning about the needs of others and taking responsibility to educate and advocate.
Wrap with Love
Wrap with Love is a non-for-profit that seeks volunteers to knit, crochet and sew beautiful warm wraps to be distributed to people in need. Queenwood is delighted to regularly knit for this important service that provides wraps for people both in Australia and overseas.
Redfern Jarjum College
Queenwood takes students on a fortnightly basis to Redfern Jarjum College, a full-service community school supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families living in Sydney. Students meet to play sport together at the National Centre for Indigenous Excellence oval and then return to class where Queenwood students assist in teaching technology skills to primary aged students.
Glengarry Aged Care Facility
Queenwood students visit Glengarry aged care facility in Mosman on a weekly basis after school to connect with the residents, share stories and have afternoon tea. We also share musical items and hold a joint Christmas celebration.
Rough Edges
St John’s Community Services in Darlinghurst helps people experiencing homelessness through offering legal advice, community meals and assistance with basic needs. Year 11 girls assist at their Rough Edges café in the evening on a weekly basis serving meals, connecting with patrons and playing board games together.
MVC/Northern Rivers Excursion
Each year we take a group of Year 11 students on a four day excursion to Dunghutti and Gumbaynggirr Country where they connect with the Bowraville community, Macleay Vocational College (MVC) and learn the history of Kinchela Boys Home on Country. This excursion has developed from our relationship with MVC , a school offering pathways back for predominately First Nations teenagers who have fallen out of education. We exchange regular visits with the Queenwood community and MVC community to share our experiences and engage in two-way cultural learning.
Arnhem Land Immersion
Each year, we offer a 7-day East Arnhem Land immersion. Students go to a remote homeland and participate in a life changing program located in one of the most culturally intact and pristine regions left on Earth. The immersion is run through Culture College and students will be accompanied by Queenwood teaching staff and members of the Culture College team. This immersion is open to Year 9, 10 and 11 students.
Annual Connections
Each year, Queenwood students also take part in:
• Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn
• Balmoral Swim for Cancer
• Red Shield Appeal
• Legacy Day
• Red Shield Appeal
• Canteen Bandanna Day
• Guide Dogs Australia
Emergency Relief Fund
Queenwood holds regular events to fundraise for the Queenwood Emergency Relief Fund. This allows our School to respond to local, national and international disasters by providing funds in a timely manner.
English Competitions
Each year Queenwood offers a suite of writing prizes to nurture, encourage and celebrate talented young writers. Competitions are aimed at girls who enjoy scribbling away in journals, laptops, tablets and smart phones.
Information about these competitions is shared with girls throughout the year. Students can submit anything that meets the relevant prize criteria including poetry, prose, essays, or classwork.
The Maths Hub
Tutorials are an optional activity for girls in Years 7 – 12 to attend for extra help in Mathematics. Girls can ask for help with homework, exam preparation or general numeracy skills.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 12
VENUE: Rennie
CONTACT: maths@queenwood.nsw.edu.au
Mathematics Competitions
The following Mathematics Competitions are designed to challenge and extend students in mathematics. Student participation is via teacher recommendation.
APSMO Maths Olympiad
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 & 8 by teacher recommendation
The Australian Maths Trust Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 9 by teacher recommendation
Please note: Participation in The Australian Maths Trust Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad is by invitation only.
The Australian Maths Competition
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7-10 by teacher recommendation
Write a Book in a Day
Write a Book in a Day is a fun, creative and collaborative competition for students in Years 5 - 12. Teams of up to ten have just twelve hours to write and illustrate a book from start to finish. To make it even more fun, unique parameters must be included in the story. Digital editions of the completed stories are made available on the online library and shared with hospitals across Australia.
Writer in Residence
Each year, the English Department work in collaboration with the Library to host a Writer in Residence. Depending on the author, different year groups are involved in workshops and lectures to learn about and from the writer. The program varies from year to year, and is usually delivered in line with Book Week activities.
Junior Science OIympiad Programs
The intensive Spring School is the Junior Science Olympiad equivalent of the Australian Science Olympiad Summer School. In addition, we offer two pathway programs that cater for different levels of student experience: the Junior Science Olympiad Training Squad, and the Junior Science Olympiad Academy. Entry to all three programs is by invitation and is based on results in the Junior Science Olympiad Exam.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 10
The Big Science Competition
The Big Science Competition is a National competition for students in Stages 4 and 5 Science that over 300 schools take part in each year. It involves multiple choice questions that test Science knowledge, critical thinking and problem solving skills. It is an online competition with questions aligned to the National Curriculum. There is no cost to students. Students in Iron and Zinc are invited to participate, along with any other keen young scientists. Success in this competition may lead to entry into the Junior Science Olympiad program.
ELIGIBILITY: Years 7 – 10
SPORT –
JUNIOR SCHOOL
Queenwood values the enthusiasm of the novice, the dedication of the elite performer and everything in between. The sport program at Queenwood is designed to induce a life-long love of physical activity among students, while also providing new avenues for girls to achieve and stretch their personal horizons.