The Ruyton Reporter - Winter 2023

A NEW HOME FOR THE SPIRIT OF RUYTON

FROM THE STUDY

Our students are the life of our school; as both the main characters and the authors of our story, they are our cultural storytellers. Earlier this term we shared a video with our community, What does it mean to be a Ruyton girl? The story, told from the heart, is the story of who we are in 2023. They tell us that Ruyton girls are proud, confident in being who they are as individuals. Goal driven, they are motivated by those around them to pursue positive actions. Knowing they have a community that backs them, Ruyton girls feel empowered as girls and young women. They feel they have a place in this school, and they treasure happiness. Ruyton girls know that this community believes in them, both individually and collectively. And they believe in Ruyton.

Mahatma Gandhi believed that the culture of a nation resides in the hearts and souls of its people. Likewise, the culture of Ruyton is found in the hearts and souls of our community; our students, staff, families and Old Ruytonians. Our culture is not a fixed quality nor is it predestined; it is our interconnectedness, our lived story, that continues to grow and evolve with us towards a shared common goal; to inspire girls to be bold and to educate girls to lead lives of impact and purpose.

In his book the Culture Code, author Daniel Coyle identified three key behaviours at the centre of a great culture; building safety, sharing driver vulnerability, and establishing purpose. He also identified a cohesive group culture as the key in enabling teams to create performance far beyond the sum of individual capabilities. It is this quality that has inspired so many memorable Ruyton moments. From academic endeavours to the sporting field and the stage, we have seen our students inspire and motivate each other to achieve their best; to go beyond.

As leaders, the Classes of 2022 and 2023 set themselves the goal to reignite student engagement after the pandemic interruption. Recognising that they were now the only students who had lived our Senior School life prior to lockdowns, they embraced the responsibility to ensure it continued. While it is widely recognised that life at Ruyton has been a fully engaged pursuit, with high levels of student participation across all academic, cocurricular and citizenship pursuits, our leaders saw beyond this. Brene Brown, researcher and storyteller, believes you must walk though vulnerability to get to courage. It is this quality that our leaders have demonstrated and articulated often, reminding students that when we participate fully, test ourselves and step out of our comfort zone we find our passions and purpose, connect deeply with others, and ultimately, unlock our true potential. As a community we are committed to preparing girls for a lifetime of learning, leadership and engagement, a mission that is clearly understood and lived by our students.

Every community has central gathering places of significant importance. At Ruyton our theatre and library are the heart and soul of our school, places where the Ruyton community comes together to celebrate, learn, grow and support each other. The redevelopment of these facilities through the Dream Now project is well underway, due for completion mid-2024. As we celebrate 145 years of Ruyton and 30 years of the Coordinate Program it seems only fitting that we are creating the next chapter of the Ruyton story through our facilities and strategic planning focus; a rich and exciting story where our girls continue to take the lead role.

Linda Douglas Principal

FROM THE BOARD

I welcome you to the latest edition of The Ruyton Reporter. As one of Victoria’s oldest schools for girls and with a rich and vibrant culture, The Ruyton Reporter is a significant publication for our community. Exploring Ruyton stories of endeavour and achievement, this magazine celebrates what has sustained and inspired our school for 145 years; our Ruyton girls. The last twelve months has been significant for our community. Having embraced the return to onsite learning and cocurricular activities, our students found joy in the simple pleasure of being together, inspiring participation and collaboration across the student body. Making an impressive contribution to the life of our school through a wide range of endeavours, our Year 12 students led with distinction and applied themselves to their studies with focus and determination. Achieving outstanding VCE results, this cohort of remarkable women will be remembered for leading with Meraki and Vibrance and ensuring the spirit of Ruyton lives on in our student body; to be bold and to lead lives of impact and purpose. Many years of planning have now come to fruition with the commencement of the Dream Now project. The largest building project in Ruyton’s history, Dream Now will provide world class educational and enrichment facilities through a Performing Arts Centre and Library precinct. The realisation of this redevelopment will strengthen Ruyton's commitment and capacity to deliver an outstanding all-round education and support our girls to become confident women who will challenge, shape and change the world. Over the course of 2021-2022 the Board oversaw the development of our new strategic plan, Fearless Pursuit This plan, launched in November 2022, was formulated through an eighteen-month planning process, enabling us to clarify what we already cherish as a community, confirm who we are, and contemplate future directions and possibilities. It provided us with the space to reflect and look forward simultaneously; to reconsider and reimagine our plans in a rapidly changing and complex educational landscape.

Fearless Pursuit launches an adventurous series of pathways as we explore the possible, plausible and probable futures in our context and culture. Through the realisation of this plan, we will ensure that Ruyton is future fit by remaining open-minded, agile and with the needs of our girls at the centre of all that we do. We will go beyond to enable them to be bold and take centre stage.

Supporting the vision of Fearless Pursuit are our staff, students, families and alumnae. Enhancing social interaction amongst parents and across year levels after two years of disconnection, the Parents Of Ruyton association (the POR) continues to work tirelessly with Class Reps and the Community Relations team to promote community engagement and inclusivity. The Old Ruytonians’ Association (ORA) has also had a productive period hosting twelve successful reunions since the last Ruyton Reporter was published. I thank the POR and ORA for their dedication to and care for our school.

On behalf of the Ruyton community, I thank our outgoing Deputy President of the Ruyton Board Kylie Taylor. Kylie has provided deep expertise in many areas but notably all things related to marketing, communications and strategy management. Her skills and expertise have been highly valued by the Board and I would like to acknowledge Kylie’s service to the School over the years in her role. Our deepest thanks to Kylie. Succeeding Kylie as Deputy President is Fiona Griffiths, who has served several years as a valued Board member already. Thank you, Fiona.

The Board of Directors also thank and acknowledge Linda Douglas and her Executive Team for leading Ruyton in the way in which we are sure Hilda Daniell envisaged. Ruyton has had another strong year and as we look forward to the challenges of the future, we are well placed to receive them.

Virginia McLaughlan President The Ruyton Board

INTRODUCING CATHERINE SAMUEL

Catherine Samuel is passionate about education, believing educators are in the privileged position to have a positive and lasting impact on the students in their care and help prepare them for future success. Dedicated ‘to ensuring every student has the right support to reach their full potential in a supportive, caring environment where individuals feel valued and that they belong’, Catherine is a warm and engaging leader with extensive leadership experience at schools including Grimwade House, St Catherine’s School and The Knox School. Describing working in education as a service, she finds it ‘immensely satisfying to watch a child grow and thrive’.

Joining the Ruyton community as Head of Junior School at the start of Term 1 this year, she was drawn to our school for its distinguished history and reputation for providing exceptional learning opportunities for girls. Catherine believes that great education creates great opportunities. ‘Ruyton is in a very strong position – we have the opportunity to continue to value and leverage its rich history and traditions, celebrate its current position as a leader in girls’ education and consider what might be next through active involvement in the latest educational research’.

Catherine has expertise in leading strategy and day-to-day operations, including the learning, wellbeing and co-curricular programs in a Junior School. Continually reflecting on ‘where we have come from, where we are at and where we are headed’, Catherine has a demonstrated ability to problem solve in complex situations and articulates clear vision and direction with a strong commitment to continuous improvement. Acknowledging that ‘we need to have the best teachers and continue to build on the skills and capabilities of our staff’ to ensure outstanding student outcomes, Catherine has a reputation for maintaining strong relationships within the school community and is experienced in coaching and mentoring. She leads with value on respect, collaboration, and inclusion to bring out the best in those around her.

Bringing highly regarded experience and skills to forward thinking girls’ education to our Junior School, Catherine is dedicated to ‘support the whole School direction under the new Strategic Plan and in doing so continue to build on the work of those who have come before me and continue to provide a Junior School where every child is known, valued and is supported to achieve their personal best’.

Catherine is an exceptional appointment for Ruyton and has already made a significant impact on our School community since her arrival. We welcome Catherine to Ruyton and look forward to seeing her succeed in her role.

Head of Junior ScHool

FEARLESS PURSUIT OUR STRATEGIC FUTURE

As an independent, forward thinking girls’ school we are committed to preparing students for a lifetime of learning, leadership and engagement in our global community.

Our school was established and nurtured through the foresight and courage of trailblazers. Over the decades our fearless leaders have remained steadfast in their future-focused commitment to educating students for the challenging world we live in. This vision is ingrained in the fabric of our school as we inspire girls to be bold and educate them to lead lives of impact and purpose.

As the world grappled with the onset of COVID-19 in 2020, the Ruyton Board made the wise decision to delay our strategic planning process. Initially in recognition of the immediate need for school communities to pivot and reinvent in many ways, this was a period of significant learning. Providing time to connect and consider our capacity to negotiate change, seek innovation, rediscover our creativity and to identify what we value and cherish most as a community.

Over the course of 2021–2022 we engaged with students, staff, parents and Old Ruytonians to contemplate our priorities. We recognise the future is inherently unknown as it is in the making and with this knowledge, we have devised a five-year Strategic Plan with a ten-year horizon, focused on five Strategic Directions:

Empowering Girls: We empower every girl to flourish by embracing emotional, social, physical and academic wellbeing practices. This approach supports our girls to lead lives of impact and purpose with courage, character and the desire to make a difference.

Powerful Learning: We build on our strong academic reputation for excellence and promote intellectual curiosity, creativity and collaboration. Personal best is central to our cultural understanding of excellence.

Engaged Community: We nurture our relationships and alliances, both locally and globally, to provide innovative and transformative experiences.

Valuing People: We are a recognised leader in education, forming valuable partnerships and attracting outstanding staff. Our investment in staff development benefits, students, staff and parents.

Sustainable Resources: We ensure Ruyton’s continued prosperity as a leading girls’ school, providing an environment where our other strategic directions thrive.

Fearless Pursuit launches an adventurous series of pathways as we explore the possible, plausible and probable futures in our context and culture. Through the realisation of this plan, we will build on the known, using our experience and knowledge alongside our collaborative partnerships and alliances, to best meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

At the centre of our strategy are our girls. Ruyton is proudly a school for all girls, recognising that while we are a single-sex school we do not educate in a singular way. Ruyton girls are themselves, pursue their individual dreams and achieve their personal best. Our staff are focused on meeting their individual learning needs; providing an environment where girls flourish and find their passions.

In Fearless Pursuit we recognise that now is the time to uplift girls and young women, actively break down stereotypical norms and welcome them to centre stage. Quite simply, at Ruyton we believe in girls.

To read Fearless Pursuit, Strategic Plan 2023 and Beyond please visit www.ruyton.vic.edu.au/our-school/ strategic-plan-2023-and-beyond/

Virginia McLaughlan President of The Ruyton Board

Linda Douglas Principal

LEADING WITH TENACITY AND WARMTH

Introducing our 2023 School Co-Captains

‘We are sure that our last year of Senior School will be a difficult year, however, we do not doubt that through our kindness and enthusiasm, it will also be one of our best.’

Throughout our Senior School years, we have been fortunate enough to watch and be inspired by the many incredible Co-Captains before us. We have been able to admire their determination, energy and individuality when stepping into the role. As your Co-Captains for 2023, we hope to carry on the legacies which have been left, whilst also bringing forth our own dreams and visions.

As a cohort, we have committed to lead the School with Tenacity and Warmth in 2023. Tenacity, by definition, is the quality or fact of being very determined. We chose this word as we believe it accurately reflects the energy and motivation of the Class of 2023, whilst also highlighting our ability to persevere in the face of adversity. Over the past few years, we have been faced with many hardships caused by the global pandemic, such as lockdown with its constantly changing regulations, and the feelings of isolation that ensued. However, these moments shed a light on our tenacity and strength to come together in pursuit of the common goal of reigniting School spirit and reconnecting our community.

To accompany Tenacity, our year level has also chosen Warmth. For us, this represents our year level’s affection and inclusion. We believe that through radiating Warmth and being open and understanding, we will rejuvenate connections and relationships in the School. Furthermore, Warmth indicates our loyalty to one another and our tendency to be there for each other through the highs and lows. We are sure that our last year of Senior School will be a difficult year, however, we do not doubt that through our kindness and enthusiasm, it will also be one of our best.

Our chosen colour, 'deep pink', combines the sentiments of both our words. A combination of red; representing passion, and white; representing peace, deep pink reflects the strength of the Class of 2023, while also portraying our caring and generous spirit. We believe that finding a balance between enthusiasm and support will play a key role in how we will lead as a group this year. Many students in younger year levels have been deprived of opportunities to see the Ruyton spirit in full force. Because of this, we want to lead by showing them the way with fervour while also being their safety net, ready to listen and encourage from the sidelines. It is by this means that we aim to rediscover, as a community, exactly what it means to be a Ruytonian.

We would like to express our gratitude towards the many talented and passionate leaders of Ruyton who have come before us, for creating such a tight-knit, generous and inclusive community. The Class of 2023 as a collective, and individuals, aim to further these relations and continue to restore the School's dynamic spirit.

The year ahead will undoubtedly present new challenges, but by leading with Tenacity and Warmth, we have confidence that the Class of 2023 will embrace this year with full force and inspire others to do the same.

Zoe Barnett and Ella Janes School Co-Captains 2023

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2022

achieved atars of 95 and aBove achieved atars of 99 and aBove

achieved atars of 90 and aBove 38% 5% 56%

MEDIAN ATAR MEDIAN STUDY SCORE SCORES OVER 40 92.00 36 28.3%

Study ScoreS of 50

Lara Hennessy

(PRODUCT DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY, FURNITURE)

Cindy Jin

(CHINESE 2ND LANGUAGE)

Congratulations to Grace Nguyen, the Dux of Ruyton Girls’ School for 2022, achieving an ATAR of 99.75.

Whilst we celebrate the 2022 ATAR results at Ruyton, our measure of success does not rely on a single score. We empower our girls to lead lives of impact and purpose with courage, character and compassion, both now and in the future. This is how we define success.

CLASS OF

Earlier this year, Grace spoke at a Senior School Assembly and reflected on her Year 12 experience and the life lessons she learned while completing VCE. This is an abridged version of her speech.

Instead of regaling you with a blow-by-blow of my schooling life, I’ve compiled a list of advice I received throughout the years and will try to explain how these small reminders have helped me along the way. The first piece of advice is a little mantra taken from my lovely mother – work together and share with the people around you. Initially reluctant to accept this wisdom, it was when I began taking her advice that I started doing better at school and enjoying my classes more. Especially last year, I found that it was the classes in which we shared notes, ideas, jokes and even grievances, that I not only did well but also had the most fun.

Don’t be afraid to try is the second piece of advice. I’m not only talking about schoolwork, but also about sport, music, art, drama, whatever takes your interest. At one stage of my schooling life, I let fear take the reins and was resigned to not try at all. At least this way, I thought, when I was inevitably disappointed, I could always tell myself ‘Oh, well you didn’t actually try, so it doesn’t matter’. Even though this seemed to be an easy way out, it was really a re-packaged feeling of disappointment, and the cause of many an upsetting grade. When I did actually try, that pit in my stomach, the possibility of having done better, the lamenting over what could have been, disappeared. You have nothing to lose by trying, whether that be opening yourself up to new experiences, or attempting harder tasks. What you stand to gain through new experiences and discovering new passions is the ability to say, ‘I’ve tried my best’.

My third and last piece of advice – be kind to yourself. Year 12 is hard. School is hard and we can’t expect ourselves to be at 100% every step of the way. Just as we need to work hard to reach our goals, we also need to have a break and allow ourselves small acts of kindness. What kept me sane last year were long FaceTimes or venting sessions with friends, afternoon walks and the occasional six-hour long TV binges on the weekends. Furthermore, the acceptance and satisfaction I felt last year following SACs or tests was paramount in getting me through the year. Instead of punishing yourself for the little upsets, feel proud for getting through and doing your best.

Among the stress and chaos, we need to remind ourselves to slow down and take a breath. You all have what it takes to reach your goals. Remember to try and be kind, both to yourself and others.

Grace Nguyen Dux, Class of 2022

We wish Grace all the best for her future as she commences a Laws and Arts degree at Monash University.

CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2022

'97 cowboys are about to ride off into the sunset to places where hopes and dreams become reality. If you ever find yourself lost in an expansive desert landscape or on the dusty long road of life, look to the distant mountains and the setting sun. Your beloved ranch at 12 Selbourne Road will always be there whenever you need it. The sun may have set on this glorious journey, but tomorrow, the sun will rise again, signalling the start of a new chapter in our lives. Because the Class of 2022 was born to chase the sunsets, and to find their new dawn.'

Sarah Lardner and Minduli Weeraman School Co-Captains 2022

BECAUSE THE CLASS OF 2022 WAS BORN TO CHASE THE SUNSETS, AND TO FIND THEIR NEW DAWN

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

30 years of the Coordinate Program

The connection between Trinity Grammar and Ruyton Girls’ School runs deep. With a shared affiliation with Kew’s Holy Trinity Anglican Church dating back to Trinity’s foundation in 1903, the two schools were often brought together. They were also natural choices for the education of brothers and sisters, especially once Ruyton’s move to Selbourne Road in 1920 gave it a neighbourly positioning on the other side of Glenferrie Road. Indeed, that sense of a sibling association had a historical foundation as both schools were headquartered in a large house once belonging to brothers from the same branch of the Henty family. Many thought there may even be a literal link, with speculation about a Henty-era underground tunnel between the two properties tantalising generations of students. Those rumours never proved to be true, but a lasting sense of an unofficial sister-brother school status between Ruyton and Trinity remains.

Over the decades the relationship developed. There was the fun of the regular Ruyton versus Trinity debate or sports matches, be it baseball, hockey or netball. From the 1930s programs such as combined dancing classes, and from 1962, the yearly musical co-production further nourished the social connections. At other times the link was more academic. Trinity boys often began their education in the kindergarten program of Little Ruyton or its Early Learning successors. Occasionally, perhaps to resolve a timetable clash, a Ruyton girl might have found herself studying a single subject with a senior class from Trinity. At times Ruyton and Trinity were even known to share a teacher, such as when Dr Anita Rodgers taught German for both schools between 1937 and 19481. These experiences were instructive; demonstrating how strategic co-operation for the mutual benefit of students was possible in a way that maintained each school’s unique identity as a place of single-sex education. It was from this foundation that the Coordinate Program grew.

By the early 1990s Prue Gillies, Principal of Ruyton (1985-1999) and Trinity’s Principal Don Marles (1979-1992) began to discuss the advantages to be gained from the shared provision of senior level classes with small enrolments. It’s probable that Fay Marles AM (Pearce, 1943), wife of Don and a future Chair of Ruyton’s Board of Directors was a supportive advisor for these discussions. The Boards of the two schools agreed to trial the idea for Term 1, 1993, a decision subsequently supported by Trinity’s new Principal, Peter Crawley (1993-1998). Initially four co-educational subjects were offered to Year 12 students at both schools: English Literature and French at Ruyton, with Physical Education and German offered at Trinity.

1 Jane Mayo Carolan, ‘For the Green and the Gold and the Mitre’, Vol 1. (Melbourne) 2003, p452.

As the broader benefits of the trial became clear, the partnership was extended to encompass a larger number of subjects in both Year 11 and 12. The experiment assisted students to gain a taste of mixed classes in their mature and confident senior years, making it valuable preparation for tertiary education. It also enabled each school to ‘generally provide 100% of students with’ their preferred subject choices. In 1995, the Boards of Ruyton and Trinity formally instituted the arrangement and named it the Coordinate Program.

When it came to making the new program work, coordination was definitely the name of the game. Long established aspects of school life like bell times, roll call, curriculum days and library borrowing rights needed to operate harmoniously between the two schools. ‘By 1999 there were forty shared VCE classes over twenty-six subject areas, with more than 150 students walking the five minutes or so between the two schools2

In 2023 we celebrate thirty years of the Coordinate Program and reflect on the deep relationship between Ruyton and Trinity. What started as a unique collaboration sharing VCE classes has now broadened to incorporate the highly anticipated annual Senior School musical, drama plays, a buddy program in the Junior School and strong professional partnerships for staff. Recognised in the Ruyton and Trinity strategic plans published last year, the Coordinate Program is a highly valued signature program at both schools that meets the emerging needs of our learners and strengthens community connection and culture.

Cathy Dodson Archivist

The Community Relations Office is calling for anyone with preserved historical items or knowledge of the Coordinate Program to consider donating those items or providing an interview that can be added to archived materials in the Heritage Collection. Please contact community@ruyton.vic.edu.au for further information.

2 Jane Mayo Carolan, ‘For the Green and the Gold and the Mitre’, Vol 1. (Melbourne) 2003, p453.

RETURNING TO SOUTH HOUSE

Providing a unique learning experience for Year 4 students, our South House program turns 10 in 2023.

Officially opened in 2014, the South House program provides an immersive educational experience for our Year 4 students. Situated on campus in a purpose-built facility, South House provides a treasured 'gap year' in which students engage in a unique educational journey and understand themselves as both learners and as responsible members of the Ruyton community. With its own vegetable garden and kitchen based on Stephanie Alexander’s Kitchen Garden Program, and a full schedule of community-based learning experiences, our Year 4 girls become increasingly aware of themselves as global citizens, as they take on greater responsibility and effect action. The Kitchen Garden Program is also integrated into the curriculum with possibilities to reinforce literacy, numeracy, STEM and environmental sustainability.

The first ever Year 4 class to experience South House, graduated Year 12 in 2022. To celebrate, the current Year 4 students invited the Year 12 girls back to South House for a homemade pizza picnic. A wonderful time was spent with the Year 12 students reminiscing about their time spent in South House. Equally, the Year 4 girls were thrilled to be able to cook for and entertain the Year 12 students prior to their VCE exams. Due to the success of the homemade pizza picnic in 2022, this reunion event will continue in 2023 and beyond.

Inaugural South House students from the Class of 2022.

Year 4, 2004.

INNOVATE-ED IN ACTION

User Experience (UX) Design is a growing field and was introduced to the Year 7 Innovate-Ed curriculum last year to foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

The Year 7 Innovate-Ed curriculum introduces students to the concepts of user-centred design and design thinking. Last year, a group of students from 7A embraced the challenge of addressing the pressing issue of fast fashion. Designing and developing an application (app) named Bicemart, they sought to increase awareness, reduce fashion waste, and combat global warming. Utilising design thinking tools to come up with a unique solution to the lack of awareness surrounding fast fashion, they encountered various challenges during the development process, but were able to overcome them and create a successful prototype.

Last year we had a great opportunity to expand our knowledge of UX Design in our Innovate-Ed class when with the challenge of constructing an app that helps prevent fast fashion.

Fast fashion is when large corporations recruit lots of poor people from developing countries and make them work long hours in harmful working conditions while being paid less than the minimum wage. Companies then discard thousands of clothes which end up in landfill, contributing to global warming. Many people are unaware where and how their clothes are manufactured and that is where we thought we could help.

We named the prototype app that our group designed Bicemart. It is aimed at fixing some of the problems surrounding fast fashion and helping you make smart buying decisions. The problems we decided to solve surrounding fast fashion are lack of awareness, fashion waste and global warming.

Our app offers three main features: shop, scan and donate. The shop function lets you buy clothes that either the company is going to discard or buy clothes that people have donated and are in good condition. The scan function lets you scan a clothing tag which will tell you where it was made, how much the workers were paid, and the average pay in that city or country.

The donate function lets you donate clothes, which will be added to our online store, or donate money, which will go to Remake (remake.world/). Remake is a charity that pays workers in fast fashion factories fair pay. Other functions our app include are tracking orders, help and support, notifications, log in and sign up.

Making the app look realistic, and flow smoothly was challenging. It was difficult to move between the functions as there were so many pages that connected to one another. It sometimes got confusing and messy, and we were directed to the incorrect page. Our solution was to take one step at a time –sometimes less is more. Once our payment methods were successful, we were able to create multiple payment methods. We spent a lot of time perfecting the login and scan functions until our app looked real and performed well. This Innovate-ED project was a lot of fun. We learned a lot about the fast fashion industry, and we had a lot of fun prototyping our app.

Evie Talbot, Brigitte Gannon, Clara Papamarkou, Isabelle Nelson and Chloe Clyde Year 7 students (2022)

CREDENTIALING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

The experiences of our Year 5, 6 and 7 students during their Outdoor Education camps highlighted the need for us to acknowledge the growth and success of student ability in transferable skills and capabilities. As part of these programs students worked in positive, productive teams and collaborated on team tasks. They also communicated and demonstrated skills of compassion towards others, particularly when challenges were presented in the great outdoors.

Ruyton’s goal is to foster the development of student capability throughout all learning programs. How might we further celebrate and define the successes of student agency and empowerment; compassion and connection; communication and collaboration; engagement and purpose in opportunities beyond the classroom, in more formal ways?

To this end, Ruyton is in the early piloting stages of introducing a bespoke Middle Years Credentialing Program that will see students gain access to a series of digital badges in general capabilities and transferable skills.

These digital badges will acknowledge levels of accreditation where students initially ‘engage and empathise’, then ‘reflect and represent’ and finally ‘act and apply’ transferable skills and capabilities, at a mastery level.

An opt-in program, students have the opportunity to complete these credentials at stages through the year, and will be supported by a team of teachers, who will guide and support them to complete required research tasks, projects and reflections. We are excited to see our students our students embrace opportunities as the credentialing framework takes shape.

If middle years students grow and demonstrate capabilities in co-curricular experiences, through civic agency, through leadership experiences and in their personal learning journey, then it’s only fitting that we acknowledge those skills through a formal credential.

Jane d’Oliveyra Middle Years Co-ordinator

HIGH POTENTIAL LEARNING

At Ruyton, we support every student to achieve their educational potential through quality differentiated teaching in a supportive learning environment and a rich co-curricular program. We understand that there are students whose innate potential exceeds that of students of the same age in one or more domains – creative, physical, socio-emotional and intellectual. Our approach to developing potential into high performance involves ongoing identification of potential, evidence-based specific teaching and learning practices from the field of gifted education, and pathways that increasingly become more personalised as these students progress through to their senior years at Ruyton.

Identification of high potential begins with our youngest students, using a range of objective and subjective data, and continues across all levels of the School in recognition that potential and development is dynamic and that appropriate and timely talent development opportunities are provided to meet specific learning and wellbeing needs.

Student choice, co-creation, breadth, depth, complexity and pace of learning options are hallmarks of the way in which we support the high potential learner. Informed by their individual learning profile, our approach matches the learner to her best fit program and pathway. For some, acceleration will provide the necessary increased pace and complexity of learning. For others, extended standards beyond the core curriculum will provide the required rigour and complexity, while for others still, opportunities to deal with abstractions and employ higher order thinking skills will yield the depth of learning and understanding these learners seek.

For the high potential learner, access to appropriate content and programs, as well as the progression of their learning through pace and pathways is important. Some examples of what this can look like at Ruyton include a group of highly skilled young readers responding to complex texts usually reserved for more senior students in a literature circle, highly able mathematicians who have already exceeded the expected learning outcomes of the curriculum

will focus on advanced problem solving, and Year 9 to 12 students in our Ruyton Scholar Program engaging in learning that is beyond the scope of the curriculum and co-curricular program. We are currently exploring ways to extend this program to our Middle Years students, with a pilot credentialling program being developed this year.

Our learning environment supports the socialemotional and wellbeing of high potential and gifted students, enabling them to connect, succeed and thrive. Optimising the growth and achievement of high potential and gifted students across all domains of potential, through evidence-based talent development opportunities and differentiated teaching and learning practices, ensures that the specific learning and wellbeing needs of these students are met.

WRITERS @RUYTON

The Writers@Ruyton initiative was developed in response to the passion displayed by students interested and excited about literature and creativity. The program has blossomed and now extends its reach to offer workshops for interested students from Years 6-12.

Last year students and teachers embraced a range of writing possibilities and opportunities including a Gala and Community Salon which was attended by students, teachers and parents at Ruyton; a series of performances which was facilitated by the Wheeler Centre (and will continue in 2023); and the mentoring by a young adult author to girls who were then given the opportunity to publicly share their work.

The 2023 program is offering many exciting possibilities including after school slam poetry workshops, open mic lunchtimes and writing retreats. As teachers we have delighted in seeing students play with language and release their imaginations into new and exciting places, and we look forward to another year of collaboration and creativity with the group that is Writers@Ruyton.

Marjan Mossammaparast English Teacher

Joanna Boer

Learning Leader – English

Writing at the Royal Botanic Gardens

THe Place

A place to catch your breath before another lap round, a place where the sound of chirping birds and distant conversations is battling the whirling of a passing plane and where the clashing of metal and whirring engines can be mistaken as the cry of a whale

A place where the cool breeze rushes through your hair, cooling you down and leaving your skin soft, and yearning for another blast, the strength picks up and suddenly the open space through which the wind travels becomes overbearing, and the cool becomes too cold

A place where the grassy surroundings are covered by white specks, short, tall little, big, daisies, the yellow centre boldly contrasts the bright white petals, yet is begging to be seen from afar the white always wins, as not a speck of yellow is met by the eye from this place

A place where a magpie walks, every couple steps accompanied by the back-and-forth motion of its head, a crunch from which a small twig breaks from beneath its claws, a moment, a pause: silence and then the rustle of its feathers announces its departure

A place where the path is close enough to see passing visitors, yet too far to hear the chatter amongst them, or the way the gravel comes in contact with their shoe after each step, in, out, through, people come and go at their own pace some, presumably looking for a place

A place to catch your breath before another lap round by Maree Antonopoulos (Year 9, 2022)

ode To PaPer

Paper, the almighty paper that carries the power of literature

When reading a book, I respect you so Wondering what it would be like to only read digitally

Oh, how I would miss the texture of the thin, grainy pages

The new book scent when the spine first cracks open

The old, vintage scent of it after it has been opened many times

And the satisfying feeling of turning the pages.

Writing at the NGV

mounT KoSciuSKo

At first, the canvas was blank. I take a breath. Sunrise. Such a funny concept in this strange new land. Tell me, how can the sky be painted a sapphire blue and flamingo pink all at once? Yet, the astonishing hues forever remain partially hidden by the infinite expanse of the forest.

I take a breath, and a strong waft of campfire smoke travels through my nostrils, with hints of a sickly sweet substance, unrecognisable, unknown.

The faint and lingering scent of dirt after rain comforts me as I listen to the soft melodic harmony of a gilded lyre, accompanied by faint but sweet humming and the crackling campfire.

The bristling of the wind against my face and dirt crusting up into the grooves of my toes sends shivers down my spine, the crisp morning air can be unforgiving, the chorus of birds chirping and our horses neighing quietly in the distance blends into the background as I stare up at the canvas-like sky.

How can a sky be so beautiful, yet so unreachable?

When writing with you, I feel inspiredThe feeling of writing on the smoothness of you Just enhances the experience

We also mustn’t forget that you are the best vessel For the beautiful art of origami

The different colours that you can wearWhether it was dyed or put on Bring out the inner beauty that you hide every day that Goes unnoticed and taken for granted.

by Kylie Hui (Year 7, 2022)

BiG Yam dreaminG

The lines that connect us across the globe

The roots of our world

The bones that we are built on And the infinite cycle of nature

The black and the white In stark separation Are united in a dance of forever In the songs of the land

Life and death

Locked in their timeless struggle

Twisting, swirling and spiraling Forming and reforming in front of our eyes

Lines of feeling loose and flowing Dreams and stories that connect us Light and dark

Alive and filling the world with its energy by Lucinda

Tee-Wu (Year 10, 2022)

My gaze drifts towards the giant-like mountains that stand untouched, alone, together, I wonder if one day, I will touch the peak and breathe in the fresh mountain air and touch the untouchable clouds. At first, the canvas was blank, I sat staring at the empty frame. Now I realise, though the canvas is still blank, it isn’t empty.

by Zoe Popelianski (Year 7, 2022)

Eugene von Guetard, Mount Kosciusko. Image courtesy of the National Gallery of Victoria

THE RUYTON FOUNDATION

Ruyton students today enjoy the benefits of facilities and programs made possible by the generosity of families who came before us. The Ruyton Foundation provides all members of the Ruyton community with the opportunity to contribute to the current and future educational and built environment needs of the School through philanthropic activities such as the Annual Appeal, capital campaigns and the Moreton Bay Fig Bequest Society.

While much of the Foundation’s focus in 2022 was on the Dream Now capital campaign, it was wonderful to receive support for the Expand Her World Annual Appeal which raised funds for the Founder’s Scholarship program and the Henty Excellence in Teaching Fund Contributing to these important projects through the annual appeal is a tangible way of supporting Ruyton girls now and into the future.

In May last year, members of the Moreton Bay Fig Bequest Society gathered for lunch at Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club where five new members were officially welcomed into the group. These women join eight others who have chosen to include Ruyton in their wills, not only leaving a lasting legacy to the School but also helping to ensure our future. Thank you to Moreton Bay Bequest Society President Robyn Kanat (Bate, 1980) and committee members for their ongoing support.

Coming up on the calendar is the Foundation Ball on Saturday 29 July. We invite you to join us at the historic Ian Potter Queen’s Hall in the State Library for a night of fun and entertainment where all proceeds raised this year will go directly to the Dream Now campaign.

On behalf of the Foundation, I sincerely thank our donors who are recognised on the following pages. From those who continue to give each year to those who are joining us for the first time, your generosity makes a real difference to Ruyton and our students.

Peter Nelson Chair, Ruyton Foundation

THe ruYTon foundaTion Ball

Saturday 29 July 2023

The Ian Potter Queen's Hall State Library Victoria

DREAM NOW PROJECT UPDATE

The corner of Selbourne Road and Wellington Street is a hive of construction activity as work continues on our new performing arts centre and library.

The bulk earthworks are now complete, the basement slab on ground and in-situ formed walls have been poured, and the basement blockwork has been laid. Work has also commenced on the in-ground stormwater system and the concrete foundations that will support the new building. Precast concrete wall panels have been lifted into place and the precinct is really starting to take shape.

This state-of-the-art building will not only provide Ruyton girls with the facilities to inspire, develop and nurture their creativity, self-expression, curiosity and personal growth but also provide a place to gather and connect as a School community. From concerts to assemblies and ceremonies, all Ruyton students from Early Learning to Year 12 will benefit from this amazing new centre.

Not only is it the biggest build in the School’s history, but also our largest ever fundraising endeavour. We are incredibly grateful to the Ruyton families – past and present – who have chosen to support the Dream Now campaign to date. Thanks to their contributions, the total amount pledged and donated currently stands at $2.5m. This is an extraordinary effort and one of which we should all be proud.

In the next few months all members of the Ruyton community will have the opportunity to be part of this exciting new chapter in our School’s story. Whether it be ‘taking your seat’ in the auditorium or purchasing an auction item at the Foundation Ball, all contributions will make a difference for Ruyton students today and into the future.

Dream Now is our opportunity as the Ruyton community to honour our values, our history and our vision. It is a bold statement in support of the School’s future vitality and excellence. Together we can help create this much-needed facility that will ensure Ruyton continues to inspire and equip girls to lead lives of impact and purpose for generations to come.

Kate Higgins Foundation and Alumnae Relations Manager

For the latest Dream Now project updates and to see timelapse footage of the build, please visit www.ruyton.vic.edu.au/dreamnow

TAKE YOUR SEAT

Please join us in creating the next exciting chapter of the Ruyton story where our girls take the lead role. Your contribution will be acknowledged with an engraved plaque on the back of a seat in Ruyton’s state-of-the-art auditorium.

The redevelopment of the Royce Theatre and Library precinct into a purpose-built performing arts centre and library will benefit every Ruyton student from our youngest learners to Year 12. This new centre will provide our girls with a place to develop and nurture their creativity, curiosity, self-expression and individuality.

Importantly, it will be a place for our community to gather and be immersed in the arts, educational programs, culture and traditions; the heart of the new centre will continue to beat with the Spirit of Ruyton we hold so dearly. We invite you to be part of this exciting new chapter in Ruyton’s story by taking your seat in the new 630-seat auditorium. With a tax-deductible donation of $1500 or more, your contribution to our future will be acknowledged with an engraved plaque on the back of the seat of your choice. takeyourseat.ruyton.vic.edu.au/

For further information on the Dream Now campaign or Take Your Seat, please contact Kate Higgins, Foundation and Alumnae Relations Manager on (03) 9819 2422 or email foundation@ruyton.vic.edu.au.

EMPOWERING GIRLS TO BELIEVE IN THEMSELVES

When the Verrocchi family was looking for a school for their eldest daughter 32 years ago, they wanted somewhere ‘that allowed young girls to express themselves and gain confidence in their own abilities as well as prepare them for life’. Ruyton was the perfect fit.

Mario Verrocchi recalls how ‘Ruyton was small enough to give individual attention and big enough to allow all possibilities for our daughter.’ Elisha (2004) started Prep at Ruyton in 1991, beginning her family’s long association with the School. Since then, Victoria (2007), Alannah (2019) and now Mario and Fiona’s granddaughters Grace (2034) and Florence (2037) and niece Mia (2026) have followed in Elisha’s footsteps.

According to Fiona and Mario, ‘Ruyton’s greatest asset is that it empowers young girls to believe that all is possible’ and helps them achieve the attitude expressed by author A.A. Milne when he said, ‘you're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.’

The Verrocchis also firmly believe that having a place and opportunities at school to participate in the performing arts are essential to a well-rounded education. The redevelopment of Royce Theatre into a purpose-built performing arts centre was therefore a project the family was keen to support. ‘It’s a facility that allows even the shyest person to come out of their shell. Maths, English and traditional school subjects are a must BUT performing allows the students a breather from regimented, structured learning and allows their personality to shine through,’ say Fiona and Mario.

Ruyton is incredibly grateful for the Verrocchi family’s generous philanthropic contribution towards the Dream Now campaign, which together with gifts from other members of the School community, will help to deliver this vital new facility for Ruyton students today and those yet to come. For Fiona and Mario, ‘we think it’s simply giving back to the School. Ruyton has given our daughters and now our grand-daughters all the effort and attention that was necessary and sometimes more to achieve all that they can. We hope that with our help it will mean this will go on into the future for other families.’

In recognition of the Verrocchi family’s generous support, the new state-of-the-art building will bear the Verrocchi name. While thankful for the gesture, Fiona and Mario encourage other Ruyton families to support the Dream Now campaign. Mario explains, ‘my father was a builder – he said when constructing a new building, make the foundation a little deeper, a little wider, and put in a little more steel. That way the building will never fall down and can go higher than you thought. Ruyton is creating the foundations for your daughters’ education, so invest in the foundations, so for our daughters – the sky's the limit!’

Kate Higgins Foundation and Alumnae Relations Manager

MORETON BAY FIG BEQUEST SOCIETY

Kylie Taylor is a Ruyton parent, a member of the Ruyton Board, the Ruyton Foundation and was recently inducted as a member of the Moreton Bay Fig Bequest Society. We recently spoke to Kylie about her decision to leave a gift to Ruyton in her will.

What’s your connection to Ruyton?

I first discovered Ruyton when I was looking for a kinder program for my son. In 2011 he started 3 year old kinder at the Ruyton Early Learning Centre and then in 2013 my daughter started in 3 year old kinder, and she has continued on at Ruyton and is in Year 8 now. I am not from Melbourne so was not familiar with the schools. We got lucky with Ruyton.

What do you love most about Ruyton? What makes our school special?

When I entered the Ruyton community I was immediately struck by the values, the emphasis on girls’ education and empowerment and the sense of community that comes from a smaller sized school. I was also impressed by the leadership’s desire to seek out best practice globally and adapt it for our girls. Ruyton is a school I would have liked to have attended: there is a nice balance between aspiration and wellrounded, with a good dose of values and an edge of spirited gutsy-ness.

What made you decide to leave a bequest to Ruyton?

There are many causes that I support, or would like to support, but funds are limited. I am particularly interested in girls’ education, female empowerment and all aspects of inclusion and equality. Ruyton gets this. I would like to support more girls to have the opportunity of a Ruyton education. At this point in time, I am only able to make modest contributions. When I heard about the bequest opportunity it seemed like a good way for me to fulfill my desire in the future.

The other reason I felt a bequest to Ruyton was important and would fit our family values is that it is critical to the long-term sustainability of the School that it has a corpus of funds for future development. Many of the boys’ schools have deep funds built it over generations. We are behind and need to play catch up. Is this something you discussed with your children?

I discussed this with both my son and my daughter and explained the concept of bequests. We have always talked about sharing what we have with others, so this was a logical extension. My children are well aware of their privilege and thought a bequest made a lot of sense.

What does leaving a bequest to Ruyton mean to you?

It feels purposeful. It means I can use my will to make an impact beyond us. And for my children, they can feel good knowing that they are sharing for a purpose bigger than the next new shiny thing they may want to buy.

What hopes do you have for the money you will leave behind?

It’s impossible to be too prescriptive with an event that will be some way off in the future. I like the idea of the Founder’s Scholarship. My desire would be that the funds can be used towards giving the lifechanging experience of education to a girl that would not otherwise have the opportunity. But that will be for others to decide at the time.

If you are considering leaving a bequest to Ruyton Girls’ School, please contact Kate Higgins, Foundation and Alumnae Relations Manager confidentially on (03) 9819 2422 or email foundation@ruyton.vic.edu.au.

OUR 2022 DONORS THANK YOU TO

Ms L Bedford

Mrs D Berold

Ms G Berry & Mr T Simpson

Mr D & Mrs N Bidmead

Ms T Bui & Mr C Neil

Mrs A Caplan & Mr M Caplan

Mr G Cartledge & Ms E Van Bavel

Mrs J Chen

Mr B Cleeve

Ms A Condon & Mr M Cunnington

Mr R & Mrs S Crockett

Mrs F Crosby

Mr M Cunnington & Ms A Condon

Ms C Dardalis & Mr L Kafasis

Mr T & Mrs K Davidson

Ms S de Guingand

Ms S Dean

Ms L Douglas

Mrs R Dowling

Mr J & Mrs R Downer

Ms A Dundas & Mr S Pole

Mr P Ekers

Mr Y Fan

Mrs R Franet

Mrs M & Mr D Gallace

Mrs M Gibson

Mr J & Mrs H Gillam

Ms B Gough

Mr M & Mrs M Gray

Ms F Griffiths & Mr A Osmond

Mr A Grollo

Mrs A & Mr M Hansen

Mrs A Helps & Mr R Gannon

Ms M & Mr A Higgins

Ms C Hill

Mr B & Mrs J Huynh

Ms S Jayaswal & Mr R Cooper

Mr P & Mrs R Kanat

Mrs M Keppell

Mrs H King

Dr R & Mrs J Kleiman

Ms S Lam & Mr C Ho

Mr S Lan & Mrs A Phung-Lan

Ms J Lei & Mr J Shan

Ms Q Lin & Mr Z Chen

Mr M Lo & Ms S Chan

Mr L Luo & Mrs L Qiu

Mrs D & Mr P McAuliffe

Mrs V McLaughlan

Mrs S & Mr D McLeish

The Hon. Justice C McMillan

Mrs J Meng & Mr Y Wu

Ms L Miller

Ms E Milne

Mr M Mok & Ms E Young

Mr P & Mrs N Nelson

Dr H Nguyen & Ms C Tran

Old Ruytonians’ Association (ORA)

Parents of Ruyton

Mrs A Phung-Lan & Mr S Lan

Mr C & Dr M Price

Mr A Roach & Ms J Williams

Ms S Saltsidis & Mr P Kokovas

Mr A Senyard & Dr M Burgess

Mr P Sharples

Dr S Shirzad & Mrs S Lu-Shirzad

Mrs Q Shu & Mr Q Yang

Dr X Sun & Dr X Wang

Miss E Syle

Mr A & Mrs S Talbot

Mr Y Tang & Mrs Y Wang

Mr H & Ms C Truong

Ms M Utter & Dr J Marchant

Mr M & Mrs F Verrocchi

Mr S & Mrs B Walmsley

Dr E Warne & Dr F Andrewes

Mrs J Webb

Dr A & Mrs D Weeraman

Mr P & Mrs C Wijeyaratne

Miss L Wills

Mr A & Mrs A Wong

Ms K Woolrich & Rev M Woolrich

Dr A Wray & Prof C Williams

Mrs D Xu

Ms Y Yang & Mr Z Guo

Ms H Yuan & Mr Y Liu

Mrs N Zhou & Mr K Shu

Ms Y Zhu & Mr X Li

Anonymous (1)

This report lists donors to Ruyton Girls’ School from 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2022. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy. If an error has occurred, please accept our apologies and contact the Community Relations Office on (03) 9819 2422 or foundation@ruyton.vic.edu.au so we can amend our records.

Moreton Bay Fig Bequest Society members

The following members of the Ruyton community have advised the School of their intention to include the School in their wills, thereby joining the Moreton Bay Fig Bequest Society. This list is cumulative.

Mrs S a’Beckett

Mrs B Anderson

Mrs M Ashton

Ms S Dean

Ms L Douglas

Ms F Griffiths

Mrs R Kanat

Mr W Lapcik †

Mrs F Marles AM

Mrs M Smith OAM

Ms M St Clair Crampton †

Mrs S Sutherland

Ms K Taylor

Miss J Teasdale

Ms N Verity †

† = Deceased

MEET OUR POR PRESIDENTS

BridGeT lanGleY

I attended Ruyton and finished in the Class of 1991; even now you’ll still catch me passionately supporting Anderson House or stomping my foot during the School song. During my time at Ruyton, my mother was very involved in the community. She sewed gifts, organised costumes and later became the President of the POR. At the time, I always appreciated her tremendous support and engagement in my School life. Now that my daughter Harriet attends Ruyton, it seemed only natural to give something in return to the School that had supported me, and to follow in my mother’s footsteps as a member of the POR.

Anyone who has spent time with me will know that I can talk… so what I’ve enjoyed most about taking part in the POR Committee has certainly been meeting new Ruyton families and chatting with members of our community. The POR is involved in countless fun, incredible events and it is rewarding to witness first-hand the buzz of conversations and the delight of socialisation. Through it all, I’ve gained strong friendships with parents across the School and a closer relationship with Ruyton and its staff members.

I’ve been giving a lot of thought as to what makes Ruyton so special. Certainly, the inclusiveness of the School and its ability to retain a closeness and familiarity amongst the student cohort and community, all the while providing outstanding educational opportunities and extensive extracurricular activities is a special feat. But it goes even deeper than that. I look at the Morton Bay Fig Tree and see a symbolic figure of the unique Spirit of Ruyton. With its tall stature, broad trunk and wide-spreading canopy has meaning to every level of the community. For the students, it represents personal growth, building foundations and having the strength to perform to their personal best. For staff, Old Ruytonians, parents, guardians and family members of Ruyton; it is reaching out, connecting and sheltering us all, as we continue supporting and being supported by one another.

A legacy of sorts has begun in my family with me following in my mother’s footsteps as a Co-President of the POR, and perhaps my daughter will one day volunteer. A legacy I would love to leave at Ruyton would be an expansion in the number of POR volunteers, so that many more parents can share in this immensely rewarding experience filled with genuine relationships, fun events and being part of something bigger.

elli BeGGS

I went to a school not unlike Ruyton. I loved the feeling of being in a place where you knew everyone, and everyone knew you. It felt like being part of a really big family. That is what I wanted for my daughter Sophie and now she is in Year 5 here at Ruyton. We have both loved being a part of this School community and have certainly found that family feeling once more.

My parents were strong participants in my school activities when I was younger, and I always felt proud and buoyed by their presence and contribution. I believe being present in our kids’ lives is so important and this kind of involvement can create so many cherished memories. Some of the memories I treasure most from my childhood are those of my dad attending school events as he passed away 16 years ago.

Through my involvement in the POR Committee, I have met some wonderful, creative and committed parents. We have such fun together – whether it be collaborating on luncheon decorations and attending our POR events or serving donuts for the Biggest Morning Tea; we come together, make friends and have a ball. The reality is that we all spend a significant block of our lives involved in our kids’ education. So I believe being a part of the community makes our time supporting our daughters all the more rewarding. We certainly come out of it with more friends and our hearts full.

An event I am proudest of in my time within the POR was our first Annual Luncheon in 2022 post COVID-19. We put our hearts into ensuring it would be a special return, and after such a long time apart it was so rewarding to see everyone smiling and enjoying each other’s company. A close second would be the re-imagined Father’s Day Breakfast, seeing the joy on the faces of dads and daughters alike was something to be cherished.

A legacy I hope to leave at Ruyton from my time as a POR Co-President would be creating a safe space for all parents to come and contribute within. I would hope that others are encouraged to participate in the POR and the School community, as all are welcome.

Elli Beggs and her daughter Sophie (2030), Bridget Langley (1991) and her daughter Harriet (2026).

2023 POR LUNCHEON

PARENTS WELCOME EVENT

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

What a wonderfully busy and full year the Old Ruytonians’ Association had in 2022. It was great to be able to hold so many events after a dismal couple of years and it’s a great feeling to have ‘caught up’ on our reunions now. In the second half of 2022 we held the following reunions and events:

2021, 1 Year

2000, 20 Years (belated)

1992, 30 Years

1982, 40 Years

ORA Golf Day

London Reunion

It was very special to be able to welcome the Class of 2021 to the Old Ruytonians’ Association and see so many of this cohort attend their first Ruyton reunion. The ORA Golf Day was held after a two-year hiatus and we sincerely thank Old Ruytonian Sue Thomas (Oakley, 1966) for organising this event for the past 15 years. Our volunteers are so valuable and very much appreciated. The London Reunion was hugely successful and was held in the most exquisite venue.

All our reunions were held off site last year (except one) due at first, to COVID and then due to Ruyton’s Dream Now building project. The Dream Now building project is named after Old Ruytonian and former Principal Hilda ‘Dream’ Daniell.

We hope to see many girls at year specific reunions this year and supporting the ORA Grand Reunion so it is a huge success. We are holding a New York Reunion later this year along with three interstate reunions; it’s been a while since we’ve been able to host these, so we are very excited. Make sure the School has your correct email address so we can keep you updated with POR events and news.

We successfully held our Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 2 May with Hacia Atherton elected President again. The Committee warmly welcomes new members and invites interested parties to contact them on ora@ruyton.vic.edu.au for further information.

We welcome and congratulate the Class of 2022 to the ORA and we wish the Class of 2023 a fabulous year ahead.

Finally, we would like to congratulate former ORA President, Phoebe Demiris (Tallent, 2003) on the birth of her third child, Peter Rupert Demiris last year. Peter is a younger brother for Jack and Henry (pictured below).

old ruYTonianS’

Grand reunion

Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club

Event details coming soon

To update your details: online – www.ruyton.vic.edu.au/our-community/ updatedetails email – ora@ruyton.vic.edu.au

old ruYTonianS’ aSSociaTion Social media PlaTformS

Website – www.ruytonora.com.au

Instagram – @oldruytoniansassociation

Facebook – facebook.com/oldruytoniansassociation

Save THe daTe – fridaY 18 auGuST 2023

aSSociaTion

‘

amBer’S wHiTe liGHT (awl) fundraSier

A group of Old Ruytonians from the Class of 2020 are involved in fundraising for Amber’s White Light (AWL). AWL (a sub-fund of the Australian Communities Foundation) was created by the parents of Amber Wraith (2020) after her passing last year following a struggle with mental illness. AWL supports research into complex mental health issues and suicide prevention for teenagers and young adults, especially young women. Amber was a keen relay runner while at Ruyton and there remains a camaraderie among the Year 6 Ruyton relay team that made the SSV State Final in 2014.

Maddy Truong (2020) has designed the AWL website amberswhitelight.au Amy Hale (2018) and Izzy Hale (2019) have initiated other ways to raise funds for AWL through music bands and friendship connections.

Laura Jane Irving (2021) ran the Run the Tan event at the end of April to raise funds for AWL.

2020 School Captain, Mia Waters is also fundraising for AWL runthetan23.grassrootz.com/acf-amber-s-white-light/mia-waters

In April last year, my dear friend Amber passed away after an extremely difficult mental illness battle. Amber was a bright light in the lives of all that she knew, and I miss her deeply. This year I am fundraising for AWL, through Run The Tan, to raise money to further research into complex mental illness and suicide prevention.’ – Mia Waters (2020)

DATES TO REMEMBER IN 2023

maY

Thursday 25 May Golden Girls and Borders Reunion

auGuST

Friday 18 August

Old Ruytonians’ Grand Reunion

ocToBer

Monday 2 October ORA Golf Day

Friday 13 October

Class of 1983, 40 Year Reunion

Thursday 19 October

Class of 2022, 1 Year Reunion

Please note that these dates are subject to change Updates will be made on the following ORA social media platforms: Website – www.ruytonora.com.au Instagram – @oldruytoniansassociation Facebook – facebook.com/oldruytoniansassociation

ruYTon will Be HoldinG THe followinG addiTional reunionS

2023 – Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and New York

2024 – Canberra, Perth and Hobart

RETURNING TO RUYTON

Graduating with the Class of 2015 and proud members of the Old Ruytonians’ Association (ORA), Kate Graham and Marina Altson have found themselves back at Ruyton in 2023 — this time as staff.

Sometimes I find it hard to believe that my one afternoon a week coaching job I had when I first started at university turned into a full-time teaching position at Ruyton.

In my first year out, Louisa Burbury hired me casually to coach GSV sport on a Thursday afternoon and attend sports carnival events. I continued to do so whilst completing my bachelor’s degree before leaving Melbourne in 2019 to live in the UK. Whilst there I worked at a boarding school as a full-time, live-in teaching assistant and sports coach. This is where my passion for teaching blossomed.

Upon my return to Australia, I enrolled in the Master of Teaching degree at the University of Melbourne, and in-between placements and lockdowns, returned to Ruyton to coach weekly sport. In 2022, I was emergency teaching and coaching at Ruyton when an opportunity to teach Year 7 Humanities presented itself. I was successful in landing the role and by midyear I was teaching Year 7 to 10 part-time, and am now teaching full-time Humanities, including VCE Geography, in 2023.

Coming back to Ruyton at some point in my career was something that I was interested in pursuing. I didn’t expect that opportunity to present itself so soon. I loved my time at Ruyton. I was a very keen student who loved involving myself in as much as I could –particularly in sport. Coming back to the School to teach has been surreal. It did take time to change my mindset from being back at my school to being at work. What makes me genuinely happy is seeing the students enjoy all my favourite Ruyton pastimes, including PAHF, GSV carnivals and other antics that happen on the day-to-day. I don’t think I would be the person or the teacher I am today without the unique experiences, efforts of the teachers and Ruyton’s ethos.

I was excited when Marina told me she had accepted a role at Ruyton. There have been a few classmates of ours who have also worked casually in co-curricular spaces, and as emergency teachers and exam supervisors. It was always nice to receive an ‘I’m at School today’ message and have a chance to catch up and reminisce. Marina and I had a lot to do with each other at School – choosing similar subjects in VCE, a history tour to Italy together, and sport and drama activities. It feels like I have come full circle back to Ruyton, and it is a joy to be working alongside an old friend.

Kate Graham (2015) Senior School Teacher

a STorY of Two old ruYTonianS

I am a pretty nostalgic person. I will usually opt to re-read a book, than start a new one. I enjoy revisiting my childhood bedroom and rifling through old notebooks or photographs, so returning to the school where I was a student from Year 4 to Year 12 to work has been an absolute pleasure. Ruyton was an amazing fit for me as a student. I found my people, I found my passions, and I felt I could try anything and everything, so I did. I participated in bands, choirs, school musicals and plays, as well as GSV sport, debating and the Sustainability Team. Kate was right there alongside me from the beginning, both participating in after school drama with Mrs Parker in Year 6, and supporting all the House events together (go Lascelles!). I even featured as a singing knife, whilst Kate was a singing fork in Trinity and Ruyton’s Senior School Musical of Beauty and the Beast. Amongst all the fun, your school years lay the foundation for who you become and where you might go in life. I owe a lot of my character to Ruyton, and to the teachers who guided me to be where I am today.

Earlier this year I was eager to shift jobs and find a new challenge whilst completing my final year of university. By lucky chance, I was perusing Ruyton’s careers page and saw a role that aligned with my experience in community development and embraced my knowledge as an Old Ruytonian. I was delighted to accept the job and am grateful for the opportunities it has already provided. Being back has certainly tickled my nostalgia. I see some of my past teachers in the hallways and now call them by their first name (and almost expect some essay feedback from Paul Upperton when I turn this article in!). I catch up with Kate at lunchtime and Ady Broder walks past shaking his head, hoping he doesn’t have to teach us mathematics next period. Lots has stayed the same about the School such as the warmth and buzz around campus, and the ever beautiful Morten Bay Fig Tree. But it has changed as well. Ruyton is future-focused and dedicated to empowering girls, and I’m thankful for new additions such as introducing pants to the school uniform and aspiring to be ever more inclusive.

There is also a giant construction site where the Dream Now project is currently being built… and though it evokes a little homesickness to say goodbye to Royce Theatre, I am so excited for the new building and all it will bring to the lives of Ruyton students, now and into the future.

If I had to summarise my experience in a sentence, I’d say returning to Ruyton to work has felt a bit like coming home.

Marina Altson (2015) Community Relations Assistant

ALUMNA PROFILE TESS GARDINER

After graduating Year 12 as a member of the Class of 2012, Tess Gardiner followed her passion for the environment, poverty alleviation and food nutrition to university. She could never imagined where her studies would take her.

What was your favourite memory of you time at Ruyton?

Year 12 is a precious time to look back on. The countdown to our final days would have to be my favourite memory. Themed days, taking photos, preparing for our final assembly, and then of course our last day. It was like the nostalgia kicked in before we’d even left. I loved the final days, saying goodbyes and being grateful for the past six years mixed with the excitement of the next adventure.

What is your current occupation?

For the last three years, I was the General Manager of a not-for-profit social enterprise called The Community Grocer, that runs affordable pop-up fruit and veg markets and programs to increase social, physical and economic access to fresh food. After making a (literal) sea change at the end of last year, I’ve stepped back in my role with The Community Grocer and taken a position as Health and Wellbeing Planner at Golden Plains Shire Council. This sees me planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating the Council's Municipal Health and Wellbeing Plan. It’s a nice balance of still doing the on-the-ground food systems work with The Community Grocer and taking a public health and place-based approach across a broader portfolio (beyond just food) with Council. Is the occupation what you imagined for yourself when you were in Year 12?

Looking back, it makes sense how I arrived where I am, but I didn’t imagine it. Back then I knew I wanted to work with people and was into sustainability and social justice; that’s not changed. I kept finding opportunities that filled me up and left those that didn’t. The more I learn and grow, the more excited I get about the possibilities ahead.

Are the values and aims of your work in line with your own passions?

Definitely. I feel so lucky to have work that fulfills me so much. Food is such a powerful tool and is a common denominator for every person on this planet. It should be everyone’s right to be able to access affordable, high quality, culturally appropriate fresh food. The Community Grocer’s vision is not just about ensuring fresh food access but also using food to connect us and I think that particularly resonates with me. It’s been great to be able to take those learnings and apply them to my work with Council.

What advice would you give your Year 12 self?

Trust your instincts, grab onto opportunities that come your way, expose yourself to the world, keep learning, don’t stop looking at the bigger picture, have confidence in yourself and strive for happiness. You’ll never stop growing so lean into the mess and enjoy the ride.

Marina Altson (2015) Community Relations Assistant

VALE

Deaths of Old Ruytonians or former staff members of which Ruyton is aware are listed here. Obituaries for the name(s) in italics below appear after the listing.

BARRETT, Jocelyn Mary (Kirk, 1946)

Born 16.7.1929; RGS 1939-1946; Died 31.1.2022

Jocelyn’s daughter Caroline Mackenzie (Barrett, 1986) attended Ruyton.

COOK, Glenyce (Smith, 1957)

Born 25.5.1939; RGS 1951: Died Feb 2002

Glennie’s sister Leonie Salmons (Smith, 1959) attended Ruyton.

KIRWAN, Lorraine (Dumbrell, 1948)

Born 21.7.1932; RGS 1944-1948; Died 3.1.2023

Lorraine’s sister Jillianne Burnet (Dumbrell, 1961) and niece Rachael Gopal (Burnet, 1998) attended Ruyton.

RIALL, Gillian (McMillan, 1949)

Born 20.3.1933; RGS 1937-1949; Died 29.9.2022

Gill’s mother Phyllis McMillan (Marshall, 1918), aunt Edith Marshall (1919), sisters Judith Ritchie (McMillan, 1946) and Diana Draffin (McMillan, 1947) attended Ruyton.

WATSON, Margery (McAlpin, 1949)

Born 7.2.1932; RGS 1937-1949; Died 22.5.2022

Margery’s sister Elaine Harms (McAlpin, 1952) attended Ruyton.

WITTMAN, Joanna Clare (1984)

Born 15.3.1967; RGS 1976-1984; Died 8.3.2023

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING CORRECTION WHICH APPEARED IN THE SPRING 2022 EDITION OF THE RUYTON REPORTER.

FLETCHER, Kath (Shaw, 1952)

Born 10.2.1935; RGS (including Little Ruyton) 1940-1950; Died 12.5.2022

Kath's daughter Jane Fletcher (1981) attended Ruyton.

ruYTon alSo wiSHeS To acKnowledGe THe deaTHS of valued communiTY memBerS:

Anne Kantor AO (past parent)

Dino Traverso (past parent)

If you have any updates of Old Ruytonians’ deaths, or wish to send an obituary to the School, please contact the Foundation and Alumnae Relations Manager, Kate Higgins by email at higginsk@ruyton.vic.edu.au or (03) 9819 2422

lorraine PaTricia Kirwan (dumBrell, 1948)

Born 21 July 1932; RGS 1944-1948; Died 3 January 2023

Ruyton’s 1948 School Captain, Lorraine Patricia Kirwan (Dumbrell, 1948) died on 3 January 2023, aged 90.

Lorraine commenced her studies at Ruyton in 1944 and was one of only four students who matriculated in 1948. Lorraine was very active at School. In her penultimate year, 1947, Lorraine was a member of the Editorial Committee of The Ruytonian, Vice-Captain of Daniell House, member of the Library Committee, member of the General Committee and Secretary of the Sports Committee. In her final year, 1948, Lorraine was School Captain, Prefect, Co-Editor of The Ruytonian, Vice-Captain of Daniell House and member of the General Committee. Lorraine was also a keen basketballer and swimmer.

Lorraine was not the only member of her family to attend Ruyton with her sister, Jillianne Burnet (Dumbrell, 1961), attending from 1952-1959, and Jillianne’s daughter, Rachael Gopal (Burnet, 1998), from 1991-1998.

Lorraine excelled academically and received first class honours in French and German in her matriculation. Lorraine commenced a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Melbourne, only to have her university career stymied, contracting glandular fever, and having her father, a World War I veteran, comment: ‘Why do you want to go to university? You’re only going to get married!’ Lorraine took her father’s lead, was married at the age of 21, and had four children by the age of 30.

Lorraine was never happier than when she was in the company of her husband of 68 years, Ian Kirwan.

The overriding influence in Lorraine’s life was her unequivocal Christian faith, being very active in her church, a voluntary teacher of religious education at state schools for 42 years, visiting prisoners in gaol for many years as part of the Prison Fellowship program, and regularly assisting sick and isolated people.

Well into her 80s, Lorraine continued her weekly tennis games, went swimming with her husband Ian, and delighted family and friends alike with her inspired cooking.

Along with her four children, Lorraine and Ian adored their 14 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Lorraine maintained excellent health all her life, until her heart started to fail over her last 12 months.

Lorraine’s life was a life lived well, which gave great joy and love to innumerable people.

Written by Lorraine’s son, Michael Kirwan

alumnae

Gillian marGareT riall (mcmillan, 1949)

Born 20 March 1933; RGS 1937-1949; Died 29 September 2022

Gillian lived in Daracombe Avenue, Kew and married Peter Riall of Brighton on 19 February 1954.

Gillian attended Ruyton as a day student from 1937 until 1949. She went on to Invergowrie Homecraft Hostel in Hawthorn for a year before she commenced her mothercraft nurse training at St Gabriel’s Babies’ Home in Balwyn and was dux of her class.

Gillian was one of six children and the third girl in her family to attend Ruyton. Her sisters Judith and Diana McMillan were older than Gillian and she was unhappy being left at home so was sent to School at the age of four, making her one of the youngest students at the time. Miss Daniell was her headmistress for her school life and Gillian adored her.

Growing up during the war meant Gillian's father Alexander McMillan was away most of her younger years. Ruyton became a huge part of her life as she missed her father terribly and enjoyed the social aspect of school and the camaraderie of the other students.

Gillian said Ruyton was like a family and Miss Daniell was a very kind headmistress.

Gillian was very sport and drama orientated during her schooling life. She played hockey and was a swimmer.

Gillian and her husband, Peter Riall had five children and were married for nearly sixty years when Peter sadly passed away in 2012.

Gillian always enjoyed reading The Ruyton Reporter and it was her way of staying in touch with events at the School and how it was evolving over the years. I took her past her old school prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and she was surprised it still looked very similar to her time spent there.

Gillian passed away peacefully at the age of 89 with her children nursing her in her home. She will be sadly missed.

Diana Draffin (McMillan, 1947) is now 91 and the only living sibling from Gillian’s generation in the family.

Written by Gillian’s daughter, Jo Wolff

alumnae

marGerY Jean waTSon (mcalPin, 1949)

Born 7 February 1932; RGS 1937-1949; Died 21 May 2022

Margery’s sister Elaine Harms (McAlpin, 1952) attended Ruyton. Margery was School Captain and Lascelles House Captain in 1949.

An intelligent but shy girl commencing Ruyton at the early age of four, School provided Margery with a wonderful safe environment to grow, develop and eventually flourish. Although not a natural athlete, she worked hard to win her colours as first pair in tennis and play basketball, becoming Vice Captain and then Captain of Lascelles House.

It was a great disappointment to Margery that in her final year no drama was held due to the polio epidemic. However, in both 1947 and 1948, she provided noteworthy comic relief playing characters in both the Pirates of Penzance and then The Gondoliers

Overcoming her shyness, Margery displayed an innate sense of humour that was liberally displayed to those close to her all of her life. The threat of another verse of the Pirates of Penzance was enough to quieten the family in the car on a long journey!

Friend of everyone and enemy of none, Margery’s capacity to get along with almost anyone along with her unassuming tenaciousness elevated her to leadership positions as a School Prefect and then eventually as School Captain in 1949. As her final report said, her nature ‘endeared her to all’ and Margery continued to display these traits all through her life.

In her work she grew and developed the confidence to study the sciences. During the lean post war years this meant joining senior classes at Carey Baptist Grammar School to complete Chemistry and Physics. She won the Mathematics prize in 1948 and 1949 and Best All Round Girl 1949.

Margery went on to study and complete her degree in pharmacy at the Victorian College of Pharmacy. Her ability to stick to task meant that she completed all her training and the then mandatory apprenticeship, but pharmacy was never her passion – although she maintained her registration for a good part of her adult life.

Margery married David Edward Watson in 1958 and from 1960, had sons David, Peter and Robert in quick succession. Family was enormously important to her. Close lifelong friends with her sister Elaine Harms (McAlpin, 1952), many happy family holidays were spent with Elaine and her children Susie, Jenny and Michael.

Throughout her children’s school years she volunteered for many activities, often finding herself in positions of leadership. In later years she continued to learn and develop. She was immensely proud of more than 35 years of guiding at the Royal Botanic Gardens and her time at the Plant Craft Cottage as President and Treasurer. In her later decades, she was proud of her mastery of quilting, having been chided at School for her stitching prowess.

At 90, Margery lived vitally and independently until her short illness in May 2022. She lived on her own for over 18 years after the death of her husband –a mark of a capable and strong woman.

Written by Margery’s son, David Watson

REUNIONS

ORA GOLF DAY

A small but dedicated bunch of Old Ruytonians attended the ORA Golf Day at the Kew Golf Club in October last year. The weather held out and the girls seemed to have a wonderful day both on the course and afterwards in the Club House. Representing the Ruyton staff, Kate Nixon (Alumnae Relations and Bequest Manager), Brigid Steele (Communications and Marketing Manager) and Linda Douglas (Principal) attended the non-sporting component of the day for lunch and prize giving and to thank alumna Sue Thomas (Oakley, 1966) who retired from organising the ORA Golf Day after 15 years.

On behalf of the Old Ruytonians’ Association, we sincerely thank Sue for her dedication to making the ORA Golf day a really fun and successful event for so many years.

Thank you Sue, you’ve really been incredible and we are so thankful to you. We also know that your successor, Janet Jacobsen (Norman, 1976) will also do a wonderful job and can’t wait for the 2023 event later this year.

In attendance: Jane Blyth (Martin, 1977), Vicki Colliver (Sallmann, 1981), Robyn De Clifford (Reeve, 1961), Rosemary Dowling (Groves, 1961), Holly Fletcher (Fairfoul, 1965), Jane Galbraith (Mckinley, 1969), Georgina Gillon (Candy, 1992), Jennie Hill (1981), Belinda Holt (1981), Janet Jacobsen (Norman, 1976), Suzanne Lucas (Hutchinson, 1961), Sally Ludlow (Horan, 1968), Jo Mason (Simms, 1966), Susie Morgan (Burridge, 1973), Sue Thomas (Oakley, 1966), Jill Webb (Daniels, 1966).

Apologies: Amelia Comport (Mason, 1997), Joy Cox (Gray, 1960), Amanda Derham (Crothers, 1970), Carol Driscoll (Crane, 1961), Jane Duncan (1970), Margaret Franke-Williams (Franke, 1966), Ann Johnston (Elsner, 1967), Amanda Jones (Parry-Okeden, 1982), Helen Lovett (Gunnersen, 1964), Leanne Morgan (Mayes, 1972), Trish Seccombe (1974).

LONDON REUNION

The Ruytonians who attended the London Reunion had a wonderful evening. Drinks were held in the very cosy Ruby Bar, upstairs at No. Fifty Cheyne in Chelsea before moving downstairs for dinner. They loved meeting other Old Ruytonians from all year levels and they have made some strong connections. Linda Douglas attended the reunion and was able to fill the girls in about everything Ruyton and the exciting Dream Now building project.

In attendance: Georgina Baker (2011), Sally Bell (1990), Luisa Bosco (1998), Bec Colman (1999), Amelia Ewart (2017), Lucy Green (2012), Rose Kelly (2011), Marian Kendall (Allison, 1965), Sarah Lester (2003), Alex Liebelt (2005), Natalie Moore (2005), Miffy Saunders (Morris, 1979), Hannah Starkins (2014), Katherine Sutherland (Nicolson, 2003), Ellie Webb (2003).

CLASS OF 1973, 50 YEAR REUNION

In March a small group from the Class of 1973 celebrated their 50 year reunion with lunch at CRU Kew. Thanks to Gabby Hills for travelling from Tasmania for the occasion and to Jenni Musgrove for her work behind the scenes. It was wonderful to hear their memories of Ruyton and to know that friendships made at School 50 years ago remain strong.

In attendance: Belinda Anderson (McLeod), Gabby Hills, Terry Kitchen (Morgan), Susie Morgan (Burridge), Janine Murray (Hull), Jenni Musgrove (Manton), Debra O’Brien (Payne), Robyn Rees (Charlton), Debra Rudov, Judy Tolson (Wood).

Apologies: Catherine Bailey, Robyn Bailey, Susan Boxshall (Ellis), Mandy Burbury (Walker), Susan Durham (Henfrey), Joanne Hyde (Kelley), Susie Seale, Liz Sinclair (Hobson).

CLASS OF 1982, 40 YEAR REUNION

The only reunion to be held onsite in 2022, 18 members of the Class of 1982 were lucky to gather in the Reception Room at Henty House for their 40 Year Reunion. The evening commenced with an optional School Tour followed by canapés, a few wines and lots of chatter. Thank you to Kas Boyd (Cox) for her assistance and to Samantha Samlal (Marshall) who travelled from Singapore.

In attendance: Lisa Angell, Nadine Barnes (Bush), Kas Boyd (Cox), Andrea Devereux (Sallmann), Alex Evans (Shepherd), Rosie Evans (Johns), Penny Fenton, Sarah Harris (Barden), Amanda Jones (Parry-Okeden), Kate Lidgett (Mitchelhill), Kirsty Lowe (Hull), Val Mackintosh (Porter), Annie McIntyre, Helen McKelvie, Virginia O'Connor (Price), Lisa Richardson (Durran), Samantha Samlal (Marshall), Debra Yung.

Apologies: Lydia Beshara (Condos), Mandy Fong, Katea Gidley Cantwell (Gidley), Gab Jacobs, Trish McNab (Fraser), Clare Molnar, Miranda Sharp.

CLASS OF 1992, 30 YEAR REUNION

2022 saw three separate 30 Year Reunions take place and in August last year, the third and final 30 Year Reunion for the year was held for the Class of 1992. Tash Dean and Michelle Lovett (Beesey) worked tirelessly tracking down girls and sincere thanks goes to them for encouraging such a large group of girls to attend. It was a great night!

Principal Linda Douglas mingled with the girls and many very funny memories were shared. Four girls flew from interstate for the occasion, Justine Hanks (Meek) and Emma Rickerby both from NSW, Angela Sullivan (Turner) from QLD and Jane Sale (Peterson) who travelled from her Station in Halls Creek (WA).

In attendance: Kim Albert, Shannon-Kate Archer, Millicent Bainbridge, Natasha Ballingall (Verginis), Jacky Barber, Simone Cohen (Lipson), Trish Cronin (Metzke), Tash Dean, Nicci Dodanwela (Long), Deborah Friedlander (Scott), Georgina Gillon (Candy), Holly Grainger, Debbie Green (Schwarz), Justine Hanks (Meek), Sarah Hewitt, Mel Higgins (Blomquist), Christina Kotsiris, Michelle Lovett (Beesey), Trina Martin (Matthews), Kate Nicholson, Georgia Phillips (Sims), Caroline Reynolds (Smith), Emma Rickerby, Jane Sale (Peterson), Erika Sellinger (Brawn), Tania Sibree, Angela Sullivan (Turner), Anne Walstab, Emma Woolley, Shirley Zeunert (Cheung).

Apologies: Ariadne Bilardi (Pitts), Renee Buchanan, Tessa Georgis, Melanie O'Halloran (Ward), Yuanna Pappos, Carolyn Speed.

CLASS OF 1993, 30 YEAR REUNION

On a cool Autumn evening in March almost 30 girls from the Class of 1993 celebrated their 30 Year Reunion at CRU Kew. Special thanks to Megan Utter for bringing her collection of school photos from her 13 years at Ruyton and to Elektra Soublis and Katie Stevenson for their work behind the scenes to get as many of the 1993 year group together as possible for a fantastic night. Wonder Women unite!

In attendance: Amanda Aitken (Johnston), Elly Arnup (Athey), Olivia Cameron (Brown), Claire Campbell, Emma Collins (Stewart), Brittany Creek (Court), Bianca Curwood, Caitlin Derham, Georgina Dixon, Emily Dupuche (Cody), Caroline King, Jenny Lalor (Lanyon), Fiona Leigh (Taggart), Amber McGregor (Cassin), Emma Negri (Winspear), Salli Newnham (MacFarlane), Elle Payne (Grant), Vivienne Power (Butlin), Libby Rosin (Bear), Genevieve Simkiss (Hughes), Elektra Soublis, Caroline Speed, Katie Stevenson, Jo Taylor, Lara Tsikaris (Morton-Cox), Megan Utter, Rebekah Vaiopoulos.

Apologies: Sara Brookes, Caroline Gibbs, Maudie Gorton, Lucy Hall, Lara Neden (Tickell), Silvia Saltsidis, Marlo Woods (Franet).

CLASS OF 2000, 20 YEAR REUNION (belated)

It was fourth time lucky for the Class of 2000 and their belated 20 Year Reunion which was finally held last July at CRU Wine Bar in Kew. Twelve girls caught up over a sit down dinner and reminisced about their time at Ruyton and the 22 years since graduation.

In attendance: Sarah Aabryn (Prior), Alana Green (Doyle), Marlow Hillman, Kate Horgan (Bucknell), Phoebe Kohler, Hermione Liu, Chelsea McKay, Steph Pawsey (Tallent), Liz Smart (Fry), Catherine Stewart, Sarah Stewart, Olivia Walton (Faul).

Apologies: Sarah Garamszegi, Lucy Mollison, Genevieve Thurgood.

CLASS OF 2003, 20 YEAR REUNION

More than 30 girls from the Class of 2003 celebrated their 20 Year Reunion in March. Special thanks to Liz Archer for her work behind the scenes to make the evening a success and to Liz Franet who travelled all the way from Alice Springs especially for the occasion.

In attendance: Liz Archer, Lexi Bell (McNeil), Kate Bowman (Parsonson), Emily Crisafi, Georgie Cruickshank (Tulloch), Phoebe Demiris (Tallent), Emma Devries, Kate Doyle (Hansen), Liz Franet, Tara Gibbs, Amelia Havlik (Atkins), Penny Heaton (Yewers), Philippa Henty, Emma Johnson (Hill), Sarah Kelly, Hye Hyun Lee, Anita Luke, Sally Marion (Logan), Alice McCahey, Katherine Monk (Maughan), Caitlin Murdoch, Anna Neate (Nisbet), Natalie O’Brien, Briony O’Halloran, Katherine Pidgeon (Woolcock), Rosie Purdue, Sophie Scarff (Robson), Jessica Seitz (Newton), Hayley Stewart (Smith), Alicia Visini (Attwood), Siobhan Weaver (Honore).

Apologies: Amy Clayton, Stefanie Di Russo, Marika Wanklyn.

CLASS OF 2013, 10 YEAR REUNION

More than 20 members of the Class of 2013 celebrated their 10 Year Reunion at CRU Wine Bar on a warm February evening. Samantha Edney travelled from Canberra especially for the occasion. All who attended had fun reminiscing about their School days and catching up on life after Ruyton.

In attendance: Isabella Aikman, Michaela Brown, Catie Callander, Bec Clayton, Ruby Clifford, Jade Delios Callanan, Samantha Edney, Karla Elkington, Tessa Faulks, Henrietta Gelber, Teresa Gong, Charlotte Graham, Sarah Heywood, Zoe Hogan, Zoe Hutton, Nikola Jackson, Lily Lachal, Lily Mulcahy, Eliza Northey, Annabel Tucker, Shuxi Wang, Jessica Wat, Lauren Yip.

Apologies: Dana Hehir, Grace Kalac, Kashi Mogensen

CLASS OF 2021, 1 YEAR REUNION

38 girls attended the Class of 2021, 1 Year Reunion in October last year. Unable to host this reunion at Ruyton as originally planned, the girls headed to CRUDO Warehouse to eat, drink and reminisce. Both Ruyton’s Principal, Linda Douglas, and Deputy Principal Head of Senior School, Lauren Perfect, attended to see how the girls were getting on since graduation.

In attendance: Amber Barry, Zoe Boussioutas, Ella Crump, Karina Dastur, Chiara De Bortoli, Pippa Dillon, Ruth Dontschuk, Sophia Doufas, Tash Hariawan, Ainslie Howells, Emily Johnson, Aisha Kassaby, Charli Kerr, Eliza Klotz, Lucy Laird, Nicola Lim Joon, Dasha Lin, Greta Mahony, Vicky Malamas, Sophia Marsh, Lexie McCulloch, Paige McFarlane-Smith, Sophie Mullins, Emily Murray, Phoebe O'Brien, Ella Raudys, Charlotte Roberts, Olivia Royce, Sonia Salins, Lily Sullivan, Emma Taubman, Annie Timm, Stella Wanless, Mia Wilson, Georgia Woollard, Lydia Woolston, Tess Young, Alessia Zervos.

Apologies: Mary Elizabeth Anagnostopoulos, Jasmine Auld, Matilda Cook, Elizabeth Kanterakis.