QUAERITE | Journal of Shelford Girls’ Grammar
SUMMER 2021–2022
The
Marianne Langridge
Our incoming Chair of the Finance Committee is Marianne Langridge, a mother of two students in Shelford’s Senior School. A project, portfolio and change management consultant, Marianne has a finance background which she draws upon, along with project management experience,
Marianne Langridge and daughters
Board members contribute time, expertise and good will to the Shelford community in a voluntary capacity and our students are the direct beneficiaries. These Board members have each had a long and distinguished period of service to the School over many years and we are indebted to them for their valuable advice, commitment and readiness to contribute. They have each brought about changes and improvements and governed in a way that has supported Shelford to be the best School it can possibly be. We wish them well for the future and thank them for their individual and collective, significant and valuable contributions to the School.
Sarah’s father is a former Shelford Board member and Sarah is excited to be joining the Board and lending her expertise in this area of passion for her. In reflecting on her own education, Sarah believes her Shelford education has given her a great deal that she has taken in to her professional and personal life and that she has benefited from. She recently spoke at our Year 12 2021 Valedictory Dinner and both our Year 12 graduates and families, welcomed her perceptive insights in to life after Shelford and the continuing influence of Shelford’s values and education.
New Board members
Elly has fond memories of her schooling at Shelford and a desire to support the school in a strategic sense, utilising her breadth of experience in management, strategy and customer focus, to strengthen Shelford’s governance and market position.
Inoffice.articulating her work life, Sarah emphasises her love of working closely with clients, understanding their needs and developing design solutions; enjoying the problem solving and customer focus. Sarah is the incoming Chair of the Property and Assets Committee and her experience and extensive knowledge of education spaces will enhance the work that Shelford does in the coming years in
Sarah Ball is also an esteemed alumnus of Shelford. Sarah is an architect with Woods Bagot, with considerable experience in education and research environments and in fact, Sarah leads the Education and Science Sector of the firm and also manages the Melbourne
Bec Brideson is a communications consultant and current Shelford parent. With past experience as an Art Director and in senior creative roles, including Creative Director at Cummins and Partners, Bec branched out to communications and consultancy work, with a particular emphasis on marketing to and for women. A keen interest in gender equity and gender issues, align with her role on the Shelford Board, championing the education and empowerment of girls and women.
planning for and providing, outstanding and modern learning and recreational spaces for our students.
Elly Bloom
Board changes
Sarah Ball
Elly Bloom is an alumnus of Shelford who resides locally. She has had extensive experience in management roles, following on from her initial degrees in Architecture and Planning. After working in arts administration, Elly has developed in to a project leader, more recently working in the financial sector. A senior leader, she has strategic, marketing, digital and customer service experience across a variety of sectors.
in advising in the health sector. A strategic thinker, skilled in stake holder management, Marianne has a broad and diverse working background. Key financial roles, including working at KPMG and for major health providers, ensures Marianne has a strong grasp of financial and risk management issues, which will enable her to guide the financial and strategic business operations of Shelford.
Outgoing Board members
There are also a number of Board members who have left the Board at the end of 2021 and we wish to thank them for their service and wish them well in all future endeavours.
Bec Brideson
Sarah Ball Bec Brideson
Stuart Baker has resigned from the Board due to a large number of other corporate responsibilities. Shelford also has had three long-standing members of the Board retire at the end of 2021, at the end of their tenure; Michael Axarlis, who served for many years as the Chair of the Finance Committee, John Phillips, enduring Chair of the Development Committee (both past parents) and Sam Brumale, longstanding Chair of the Property and Assets Committee.
The Shelford Board of Governors has welcomed four new members with very close ties to the School; two Shelfordians, who are proud alumni of the school and two current parents, each with daughters currently studying at Shelford.
As a member of our Development Committee, Bec is able to utilise her considerable depth and breadth of marketing and communications experience, to inform our strategic approach in this vital area. Bec has a daughter at Shelford.
Whilst the Presentation Evening was filmed as a link for parents and families and was not the usual grand event at Robert Blackwood Hall, it did provide a snap shot of all of the activities that were able to proceed in 2021 and the achievements of so many of our students.
Our school operations are managed by our new Director of Finance and Strategy, Modina Monaf (who replaces Brenton Smith, retiring from this role), the Director
On a high note, we were able to celebrate our graduating class at a Year 12 Dinner at Leonda on the Yarra and the evening was one of great happiness and gratitude as these students transitioned to being Shelfordians – once a Shelford girl always a Shelford girl!
In addition to our extraordinary VCE results, we achieved outstanding NAPLAN results at each relevant year level in 2021. I believe this is a testament to the flexibility of our programs and teachers, who were able to move online and continue to deliver remotely, the exceptional education that Shelford provides. The outstanding results reflect our focus in the early years on strong literacy and numeracy skills and the continued attention to academic rigour in the early senior years, delivered by passionate and expert teaching staff.
Teaching Strategies and to develop a more consistent and cohesive approach to teaching (particularly in the area of writing) throughout the Junior School. Led by Lyn with our Junior School Coordinators, this professional learning opportunity was welcomed by our teachers, who enjoyed collaborating and developing their pedagogical skills. We look forward to continuing this work in 2022.
Our Junior School staff worked with Lyn Watts, a renowned and experienced educator, in 2021 to focus on High Impact
Katrina Brennan Principal
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As we focus on rebuilding what it means to be a community together on site at Shelford, with all of the rituals and traditions this entails, we also look to the future and how we can empower our students to be ready for what lies ahead of them. This is a time of great change in the world; we are embracing this change at Shelford and looking forward to working with our community to continue to thrive in the future.
Cover photo: Olivia S and Anna D are excited about 2022 and their move into Years 2 and 3 respectively.
Our leadership structure has been streamlined and adapted as a result of feedback, particular needs arising from COVID-19 in the teaching, learning and wellbeing areas and in line with current Shelford requirements.
We now have two Deputy Principal roles with a whole school focus; Karen Whelan is the Deputy Principal Staff, Teaching and Learning. Karen will work closely with our Director of Curriculum and Innovation Year 7–12 (Emma Young), Head of Junior School – Curriculum and Innovation (Jacqui Sidaway) and Director of Learning Support and Enrichment (Karen Ryan). They will support our teachers to develop curriculum and programs and plan pedagogical approaches. They will devise assessment and ways to provide feedback, to sustain, adapt and improve the learning and teaching at Shelford, to best meet students’ needs.
Principal’s welcome
It was wonderful to finish 2021 on a positive note, with students back on campus and able to be involved in activities and camps. Years 5–8 participated in a week of cross curricula/cross-age activities; Year 9 enjoyed the Environment Challenge; Year 10 went on the inaugural Year 10 leadership camp; and Year 11 benefited immensely from a residential experience at a Melbourne University College with an introduction to Year 12 and careers/future pathways sessions.
We are thrilled that these students obtained the best VCE results we have achieved in some years. Our students are to be congratulated for their relentless commitment to high standards in the face of adversity over a two-year period. Shelford’s teachers were extraordinary in their dedication, expertise and care. Our Shelford families supported and encouraged their daughters to accomplish their very best. We are very excited to see what this extraordinary group of young women will attain in coming years.
of People and Governance, Liz Rowell and Director of Information Technology and Resources, Christine Thibou.
We are fortunate to have such an exceptional team leading the school, as we look ahead with hope to 2022, as being a year with less COVID impacts.
Shelford Girls’ Grammar’s mission is to provide a vibrant, caring, challenging and inclusive environment in which our students thrive. We prioritise learning and living in the present in order to lay academic and wellbeing foundations for the future. Access to opportunities enable our students to build upon their strengths, develop resilience and explore their creativity and curiosity, so that they emerge as independent women, who live with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Pauline Cutajar is our Deputy Principal, Student Wellbeing and Development and she will work with our new Junior School Head of Student Wellbeing and Development (Vicky Gemmell) and our wellbeing team, to support the development of our students in the social, emotional and spiritual domain.
Digitech
‘In Digitech I enjoyed coding, making QR codes and playing coding games.’ – Aiai, Year 3
‘I really liked how we made the mythical creatures and we could add something electrical inside it.’ – Lilli, Year 4
‘In Digitech we coded Ozobots to represent a fairytale. I liked coding the Ozobots.’ – Emma, Year 3
Theprinting.Digitech curriculum at Shelford is designed so students from Prep through to Year 9 all have the opportunity to experience hands-on coding and technology experiences. Our Prep students are introduced to coding using a BeeBot which uses simple coding instructions of left, right, backwards and forwards. As students progress through the year levels, the coding increases in complexity and this year, students in Years 7 and 8 created a text-based vintage video game using Python coding.
As teachers, it’s rewarding to see the projects students create. Our Year 4 students had to design and build a creature for our ‘Techno Jungle’. Their creature had to include a circuit to make it move, light up or make a noise. The project taught the students about the engineering design process and it was wonderful to watch the students as they designed, built, tested and modified their designs. It also provided opportunities to experience creativity and resilience.
When asked what they enjoyed about Digitech this year, students responded:
The Digitech lab also provides an area in which to run our lunchtime Makerspace and Bricks and Blocks activities. Makerspace is an opportunity for students to tinker, build things and take things apart. Students can work on a project over several weeks and the lab has been designed to ensure there is storage space for ongoing projects. At present, only Junior School students are involved in these activities but we hope to provide opportunities for Senior School students next year.
‘I learnt that Lego creatures could move and had superpowers like lighting up or playing music.’ – Ivy, Year 4
In 2021 at Shelford, students from Prep to Year 9 have enjoyed lessons in our new Digitech lab. The lab is well resourced with a variety of robotic class sets such as BeeBots, WeDo 2.0’s, Ozobots, Lego Spikes, EV3s and Spheros. Other special equipment includes 3D printers and a robotics table. The lab also includes a technology museum with items on display such as Super 8 film, slides, cassette tapes, floppy disks, rotary telephones and typewriters. Thank you to the generous parents who have donated items for our museum and tinkerspace.
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During their lessons, students learn how computers work, how technology has changed, how to maintain a positive digital footprint and strategies to keep safe online. They explore how to create digital solutions for real-world problems and are provided with opportunities to collaborate and explore technologies in areas such as robotics, coding and 3D
Statistics report changes in mood, lack of motivation, higher incidences of depression and anxiety, increases in eating disorders, lack of physical exercise and incentive to remain in sports and proportionately, an increased amount of screen time, social isolation and loneliness, coupled with an increase in social anxiety. Our students require the support of Shelford, working closely with families, to be able to gain a sense of normality, hope and optimism, in order to forge ahead with their education and to recover from the last two years.
Justin also provided staff and parents ideas about how to connect with our teenagers ‘while recognising the reality of their world’.
This year we are delighted to introduce wellbeing mentors at each year level in the Senior School. Students will be allocated to one of three homegroups at their year level. Homegroup will occur daily and offer an opportunity for students to meet with their homegroup and mentor each day for a wellbeing check-in and to build important connections with their peers. The wellbeing mentor will also deliver the Q Wellbeing Program, our bespoke program designed to respond to the specific needs of each cohort. The wellbeing mentors will work as an integral part of the wellbeing team and they, will be a key touchpoint for students and parents. They will be wellplaced to respond, ensuring issues are referred to the appropriate Coordinator or Psychologists, or our Deputy Principal, Student Wellbeing and Development, Pauline Cutajar, as required.
Importantly, the program offers students an enjoyable opportunity to engage with their peers across the cohort. The activities offered each year will be tailored to suit the needs of each cohort and may include activities such as sailing, rock climbing and beach activities.
The wellbeing of our students has always been prioritised at Shelford and never has it been more important to do so. The COVID-19 global pandemic has had far reaching consequences for young people around the world.
Weprograms.areconfident we are putting in place best practice structures, frameworks, people and programs, to ensure our students are given the support and guidance they need to develop the skills to manage their wellbeing and to be grateful, positive, optimistic and hopeful.
All Shelford staff have a shared responsibility for student wellbeing and they are engaged in supporting them in their adjustment, post COVID. In 2021 many staff were trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid and we also provided extensive inhouse professional learning on structures within the school for dealing with distressed students, self-harm and the restorative practice model. Our Child Safe and Student Wellbeing policies were rewritten and updated. In 2022, we will continue to prioritise professional learning in student wellbeing.
In Term 2 we welcomed psychologist, Judy McKay, to the student counselling team. Judy additionally works in a private psychology practice with young people. She has enjoyed working with students individually, through presentations to year groups and involvement in wellbeing sessions. Judy looks to expand upon this work now that we are back onsite.
In the Junior School, Vicky Gemmell has joined Shelford as the Head of the Junior School, Student Wellbeing and Development. With recent experience
Miss-Connection where he interviewed and surveyed close to 400 tween and teen girls across Australia about the challenges they face with friends, social media, relationships and identity etc., and provides helpful strategies to navigate this landscape and to understand that they ‘are enough’.
Wellbeing at Shelford
Justin Coulson presentations
The Strive Program – Year 8
The Strive Program aims to develop a range of skills in preparation for the Year 8 Camp which takes place during Term 4.
Strive is a Year 8 activities program designed to create unique Year 8 experiences relevant to students’ development though the Middle Years at Shelford. The Strive Program aims to provide additional opportunities for students to shine, beyond the classroom, whilst offering a safe level of physical and mental challenge to students.
as Head of Wellbeing in a Junior School, Vicky is well-placed to build on our strong programs and community spirit in the Junior School. She will work closely with students, families and staff, to implement innovative and responsive wellbeing
Last year we were delighted to welcome Dr Justin Coulson, PhD, albeit virtually to Shelford. Justin is the co-host and parenting expert on Channel 9’s Parental Guidance, the founder of happyfamiles. com.au, and one of Australia’s most trusted parenting experts. Over the past decade he has helped innumerable families with his six books about raising children, his hundreds of media appearances (including all of Australia’s major news outlets, and even the Washington Post and the New York Times), and two viral videos that have been viewed a combined 80 million times! forthebasedparentsstaffstudents,sessionsseparatethreepresentedJustinforandonresearchhisbook
Judy McKay, Psychologist
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Class of 2021
Excerpt from Year 12 final assembly speech by Rachel Kafka, Year 12 Coordinator (2021)
Today, wonderful humans, is your day. Shine brightly. Let your light help others make their way through the darkness. Because in lighting the path for others we fend off the darkness for all – including ourselves.
My takeaway from 2021, and what I hope will be the takeaway for the whole Shelford community, is the ability for us to come together and tackle whatever comes our way. Shelford is a school that thrives off connection and a sense of family, which never once wavered this year amidst the chaos of COVID. I know we all feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to attend a school like Shelford. And I have a message for those students here who haven’t reached the end of their journey yet –take pride in your school and make the most of your years here because it will be over before you know it. Shelford is a school you should all feel honoured to attend, and the accepting, tolerant and supportive environment everyone at this school creates is one you should embrace and feel grateful for.
I cannot wait to see the ways you will all illuminate our world. You have certainly lit up Congratulations,mine.Class of 2021.’
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Co-captain reflections
Co-Captains Finn McLeish and Kaya Cho
Having experienced a year like 2021, I am really hopeful that this has helped us develop greater resilience and become more accepting of change. The change around us, the change within us, the change that we can contribute to and the change that we sometimes have no control over. In this world – a world of pandemics and technology and social media, change is the essence of our lives – it’s inevitable. And much of this change is beyond our control. When we are unable to control a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves. But change isn’t easy. Important things aren’t easy. And fighting for what you believe in is not easy. As we move forward in the world, we must make choices about the people we want to be and the legacies we want to leave behind. As challenging as hard times can be, they are what allow us to grow, and growth is change. As another year passes and for the Class of 2021, we move onto a new chapter in our lives, we shouldn’t see this as an ending but rather as a beginning, the beginning of our journeys where we can harness our work, our values, and the skills- all the skills that we have learned, to rebuild the world around us.
Kaya Cho
‘And so, Class of 2021, after 13 years of education, 13 years of being guided and taught, it’s your turn to step out into the world. Step out proudly. Speak your truths, but always ensure that you are listening to the truths of others.
Finn Mcleish
We thank our incredible staff who have gone above and beyond in 2021; sharing their expertise in their subject domain and nurturing and guiding our students to be their very best.
Congratulations to our Class of 2021 on their outstanding VCE results.
Huan Wang (98.75), Yunhan Liu (98.5), India Fulcher (98.45), Kirsten Tsz-Yee Liu (98.35), Jinbao Wang (98.3), Luna Cho (97.95), Yue Cao (96.8), Kaya Cho (96.55), Xiran Yuan (96.35), Aimee Condon (96.3), Rosalene Doktorovich (96.1), Eve Weber (96.1), Jieying Lin (96.05), Amelia Davies (95.95), Laura Cuce (95.9), Amber Eisen (95.9), Zara Fulcher (95.8), Alexandra Hamilton (94.95), Chloe Cassar (94.45), Yichen Zhuang (93.7), Claudia Rubtsov (93.45), Finn McLeish (92.65), Cara Sullivan (92.5), Xinrui Zheng (92.4), Madeleine Gaitanis (91.5), Amy Northeast (90.95).
This award recognises the civic achievement and outstanding contribution of a Year 12 student to her school and her community. This student plays an active role in the School and wider community through activities including artistic, sporting, community service and other activities. The 2021 recipient was Laura Cuce.
ADF Future Innovators Award
We are very proud of this cohort and wish every student continuing success with their lives. In addition to achieving these exceptional results, they have contributed to the school community over many years and in 2021, were key participants in our Sport and Performing Arts programs. Our Year 12 cohort were strong leaders of the School, their Houses, Service Learning and Environment; making their mark as inspiring leaders of each other and the School as a whole.
We welcome them as valued alumni of Shelford – once a Shelford girl, always a Shelford girl.
This award recognises a student who has displayed the characteristics of a Shelford woman, displays excellence in all they do and leads others formally and informally. The 2021 recipient was Veronika Sirota.
The Dux of the School is Sasha Lovett with an ATAR of 99.55
These awards recognise the important contribution the Co-Captains have made to the Shelford community. The 2021 recipients were Kaya Cho and Finn McLeish.
The Proxime Accessit to the Dux is Peiran (Penny) Ma with an ATAR of 98.8
Jean MacQuarrie and Greg Mason Music Award
Katrina Brennan, Principal
The Caryl Haslem OAM Award
Principal’s Award for the Best All-Rounder
This award is determined by Ms Katrina Brennan and highlights a student who has demonstrated excellence in all facets of school life, including an exemplary academic record, active contribution to school programs and a keen supporter for those around them. The 2021 recipient was Amelia Davies.
Olivia Smyth achieved a perfect study score of 50 for Studio Arts
Civics and Citizenship Award
Caryl was a former School Captain (1959). This award is for a student who takes the opportunity that a good Shelford education offers – using one’s talents to the fullest in all facets of Shelford school life, a dedication to truth, courage, kindness and unselfishness and a keen interest in others. The 2021 recipient was Huan (Mila) Wang.
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Sasha Lovett
Co-Captains Awards
VCE results
Shelford’s values-driven and strengths focused education, will enable the Class of 2021 to contribute meaningfully to society in the future, building on the strong foundations of this year and all of their school life at Shelford.
Shelford’s median ATAR score was 90.45. 13% of our students received an ATAR score above 98 34% of our students received an ATAR score above 95. 50% of our students received an ATAR score above 90
This award recognises the ability of a student to demonstrate innovation and learning in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths and encourages them to use their talents to pursue further research in these areas. The 2021 recipient was Sasha Lovett.
Other very high achievers include:
Year 12 Award winners
Board of Governors’ Leadership Award
This award recognises a student who has made a significant contribution to the musical life of the School through commitment and service throughout her school years. The 2021 recipient was Holly Jenner.
Farewell to tennis coach Larry Dempster
Fiona introduced so many young people to French and opened their eyes to a whole other world of culture and perspective; showing students films they would otherwise probably not have seen, such as Les Choristes, Au revoir les enfants and Le petit Nicolas, and watching their reactions; seeing students spend hours memorising and practising French plays and poems; challenging senior students to grapple with different views on issues such as compulsory voting
Fiona spent more than half of her teaching career at Shelford, over two appointments. She described walking back through the main gates in 2011 like she was coming home.
Baby news
Staff news
Farewell to Fiona Simondson
At the end of 2021, we farewelled Fiona Simondson, who retired from teaching after a long and successful career. Fiona has loved Shelford since she first started in 2001. Although many changes have occurred in the years since then, its enduring characteristics, she reflected, are the warm and down-to-earth students, the supportive families, and the hard-working and committed staff, all of whom make up the Shelford family. Fiona believes that students may come and go, staff come and go, but significant life experiences and moments have been shared and will never be forgotten. It’s the people who make Shelford the family that it is.
Fiona looks forward to supporting her own family and spending lots of time with her young grandchildren, two of whom will start school this year. She also hopes to spend more time with her parents and friends, in the garden and outside
Year 9 Coordinator Monique Sheehy (formerly McCorry) attended Star of the Sea from 1996–2001. During Years 7–10 she studied Japanese language, where her teacher was our wonderful Head of Languages, Julie Devine.
At the end of 2021 we farewelled longtime tennis coach Larry Dempster after 40 years of coaching Shelford students as part of our extra-curricular Sport program. The pandemic and its impacts have been a big factor in Larry’s decision to leave his Head Coach role, and he is taking on a carer role in his family. Larry leaves Shelford with fond memories of students and families: ‘I have really enjoyed my time at the School and have made a number of family friends through the lessons as I have had students who also came to me privately at my tennis club.’ We wish Larry and his family our very best and thank him for his many years of service.
WeMelbourne!thankFiona for her outstanding contribution as a wonderful and dedicated teacher and a kind, compassionate and caring colleague and friend to many. Many families have benefited from her teaching their daughters and Shelford has certainly been enriched by her presence. We wish her all the very best for the next phase in her life and hope that she stays in touch with us in the future.
We were delighted to welcome two new baby girls into the Shelford community in the last half of 2021. Bec Wright, Year 11 Coordinator and Humanities and Legal Studies Teacher welcomed baby Charlotte (pictured right) in June. And Simone Lewis, Service Learning Coordinator and Art Teacher, welcomed baby Zara in September. Congratulations to Bec and Simone and their families!
Monique began her own teaching journey in 2008, and the first school she was employed at was Sacred Heart Girl’s College Oakleigh. In her second year of teaching there she had a Year 10 History class, where Molly Fitzgerald, who taught Humanities at Shelford in Terms 3 and 4 last year, was her Thesestudent.connections were uncanny –the students who became teachers became colleagues.
Generational staff connections
6 QUAERITE | Summer 2021–2022
and collaboration with an occupying power; organising exchanges to France and Switzerland and watching students challengesandNewtoontakingfriendships;makematurityresilience,amazingdemonstrateandlife-longstudentsstudytoursFranceandCaledoniasharingtheand highlights.
writing, linguistics, and communication technologies (ICT). Additionally, she delivered a lecture and developed resources on teaching writing in the senior secondary years. Madeleine has been supporting students undertaking educational research projects that draw on contemporary theory and practice. She also has offered guidance to students during their preservice placements and provided advice about entering the teaching profession.
I developed and taught a range of Humanities and English topics across all year levels. It is rewarding to see my
students persevering and overcoming challenging material, as well as having success in writing and History competitions. Some of my students have gone on to become History teachers and it is great to see their enthusiasm. Teaching at Shelford has enabled me to liaise with our community and beyond, with my roles over time on the History Teachers’ Association of Victoria Board, the Battle For Australia Committee, local Anzac Gallipoli Centenary groups and collating stories of our Shelford families’ histories of involvement in wartime which are in archives.
I look forward to still being part of the Shelford community in the future. I wish everyone all the best!
The imprint Shelford has left on me? I have really valued working with amazing students, watching them grow. I have developed long-term friendships with wonderful staff. The school has been such a big part of my life, the focus of my long, enjoyable teaching career! What will I miss when I retire? All of the above – and the quiz at lunch time!
We farewelled longstanding English and Humanities teacher Marcia Coghlan at the end of 2021 after 34 years of service. A celebratory event was held in The Hood, and attended by her family (pictured above) and many former colleagues. Here she reflects on her time at Shelford.
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Marcia
My first association with Shelford began in the late 1980s with relief teaching, becoming a permanent staff member from 1987. I remember my first day, walking into the grounds and feeling a real sense of community, which still persists today. There is something special about the atmosphere here at Shelford – not just the appealing grounds, but the positivity associated with whole Icommunity.havealways felt that my place is in the classroom, imparting knowledge and skills and developing a rapport with the many students I have taught for nearly 35 years. I have witnessed the growth of the school in several aspects, including academic rigour, the development of building works, co-curricular programs ...
selects Innovative Educator Experts to be part of an exclusive global community paving the way for their peers to share ideas, try new approaches and learn from each other. Congratulations Steven.
Farewell to Marcia Coghlan
During Semester 2 last year, Madeleine Coulombe, Head of Senior English, was working as a Teaching Associate in the Faculty of Education at Monash University. Madeleine has a passion for teacher education, and it is the second time she has undertaken this role. She and three academics from the Faculty of Education comprise a teaching team helping over 100 undergraduate and Masters of relatedpracticesonweeklyMadeleinethecareers.theirfoundationbuildstudentsTeachingtoastrongforfutureDuringSemesterledaworkshopteachingtoreading,
Steven Hogan, Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert In EachforEducatorInnovativeaswasLearningteacherourStevenSeptemberHogan,Year5andICTCoach,selectedaMicrosoftExpert2021–2022.year,Microsoft
Madeleine Coulombe, Teaching Associate at Monash University
• regular presenter at the JLTAV Annual Conference
At the end of 2021 Luther shared that he is grateful for the opportunity Shelford has given him to teach what he is passionate about to such an amazing group of students, and that having had the year to work with the Year 11 Physics class he is excited to continue their physics journey with them into Year 12.
• past Committee member
Life membership of the Japanese Language Teachers Association
• past presenter at the National Symposium on Japanese Language Education (NSJLE)
Eventually, it wasn’t enough. Seeing a new cohort every day was exciting, but being able to take a single class through a full year of Physics was an enticing prospect. So, he began a Masters of Teaching at Monash University.
Staff news
• creator of the website ‘Japanese Grammar Made Easy’ including video tutorials and workbooks for students and teachers
Over Semester 2 the Executive Team volunteered their time to support soonto-graduate teachers at both Monash and Melbourne Universities.
The first event involved a series of mock panel interviews enabling Monash fourth year students to practice their interviewing techniques, seek advice on their application letters and CVs, and to ask general recruitment questions. During the September holidays the Executive Team were a part of the Melbourne Graduate School of Education’s Careers Expo. During the Expo they hosted a Q&A session with soon-tobe-graduates, as well as being able to share with them the benefits and opportunities of continuing their own learning journey at Shelford. Lastly, the Team were invited to be a part of Monash’s Final Year Education Orientation which involved being a panel member for a Q&A session with third year education students.
• active assessor for the VCE examinations for Japanese Second WeLanguage.areveryproud of Julie and congratulate her on being recognised in this way.
At Shelford we highly value our staff working within the wider education community and understand the importance of the responsibility we have to share our skills and knowledge with the next generation of teachers.
On Bastille Day, 14 July, our Language Faculty hosted morning tea for Shelford staff, providing some delicious French-inspired food.
contributions include:
Luther’s teaching journey
Science and Maths teacher Luther Vasic started his career in education when he was given control of the Australian Synchrotron’s education outreach program. Every day a new Year 12 Physics class would come to a particle accelerator the size of the MCG and he would tell them about the feats of breakthroughsthelightspeed,particlessubatomictothatengineeringarerequiredacceleratetonearandscientificit has achieved.
Careers in Teaching –University Panels
• longest standing presenter of the Year 12 Morning, an event for students where the external examinations for VCE Japanese Second Language are explained
• editor of the Year 12 Morning booklet and materials for students
8 QUAERITE | Summer 2021–2022
• co-author of the ‘Hiragana in 48 Minutes’ workbook
Julie Devine, Japanese Teacher and Head of Languages at Shelford Girls’ Grammar, was awarded life membership by the Japanese Language Teachers Association in Throughout2021. her teaching career, Julie has made an Julie’sfurtherVictoriaEducationLanguagetocontributionoutstandingJapaneseinandafield.significant
At Monash, Luther learned the pedagogy of science education, and worked closely with Dr Jared Carpendale, a lecturer in STEM Education. In 2021 Jared invited him to join a physics education tutorial to share his experiences as a new teacher with the current physics pre-service teachers. Luther explained the ways in which he had been using what he had learned from Jared in his own teaching practice, and how he has been enjoying his time at Shelford.
During Term 4 we were all excited to welcome our students back on site after the extended period of lockdown and remote learning. As students returned to Shelford on a staggered schedule, a range of wellbeing activities were organised to allow the students to spend some quality and fun time together, after such a long time apart. Our Junior School students especially enjoyed being together in ‘real life’!
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Return from lockdown
Year 6 House Debating
From around the school
On 31 August our Prep–Year 11 students enjoyed a day off from virtual classes, instead putting their energy into following their passions.
Senior School Debating
The Year 6 House Debating Cup was held in November with all Year 6 students participating as either a researcher, working on rebuttals or speaker. This year’s debate argued the topic, ‘The Australian Government is passing a new law and have decided to limit net overseas migration to 100,000 people’, drawing on the theme of our Humanities unit. All teams posed unique and interesting arguments to support their position and used examples, statistics and humour to persuade the Congratulationsadjudicators.toThomas who won the Cup arguing the affirmative against Lloyd. Blundell came a close third followed in fourth place by Langley.
There were many interesting and varied sessions on offer inspired by the passions of our wonderful staff, including making a terrarium; cross stitch craft; doggy date; various dancing activities; fairy book club; creating a puppet theatre; cooking classes – lamingtons, cupcakes and chocolate cake; organise your wardrobe session; interactive drama games; make a pen holder woodwork session; crazy cat lady club; make a collage; active games session; my favourite books group; comedy club; Tuesday trivia; and Survivor fan session.
The popularity of debating has trickled down to the lower years, with 19 Year 7 and 8 students involved in the DAV Junior School Program (pictured top). Unfortunately, the entirety of their experience was online, but they rose to the challenge and proudly represented Shelford with their sharp minds and brilliant team-work. We are all looking forward to debating in person in 2022!
This was a great opportunity for students to connect across year levels and with some different teachers.
Despite the ongoing challenges faced during 2021, the Shelford Senior School Debating program flourished. Over 30 students in Years 9 to 12 participated in the Debating Association of Victoria’s (DAV) Interschool competition, and most of them continued to compete when the program moved to the online format. While it was disappointing to only have a couple of rounds in person (especially for the first-time debaters) the students yet again demonstrated their perseverance and commitment to their fellow team mates and school. Of particular note is the impressive performance of our A and B Grade Teams who both made it through to the finals.
Follow your passion day
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Eat Up Australia snack drive
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Science Talent Search winners
Congratulations to our Year 7 students who received awards in the 2021 Science Talent Search. The theme for 2021 was ‘Food: Different by Design’ and the Year 7s were required to create a poster that responded to one of four possible topics.
received a certificate, medallion and a cash prize sponsored by businesses across Victoria. Our winners were:
• Lucy M – Major Bursary for ‘GM Crops’.
As part of our Service Learning Program, students ran a snack drive for Eat Up Australia whose mission is to feed hungry kids so they can grow, learn and succeed. With the help of partners and dedicated volunteers, each week Eat Up makes and delivers over ten thousand lunches directly to schools for vulnerable children. We thank our students and their families for supporting this wonderful program.
Our Year 6 Class of 2021 graduated at a service held on Friday 26 November.
• Zoe B – Major Bursary for ‘Sustainable Global Food Production’.
Six Shelford students entered and all were successful, with two receiving Major Bursaries (gold medallion) and four receiving Minor Bursaries (silver medallion). To put this extraordinary achievement into perspective, Major Bursaries were awarded to the top 15% of entries in the state and Minor Bursaries were award to students in the top 35% percent in the state. All Shelford winners
• Kyley C – Minor Bursary for ‘Cellular Agriculture’.
• Maria D – Minor Bursary for ‘Sustainable Global Food Production’.
• Emma U – Minor Bursary for ‘Climate Change the influence on agriculture’.
• Chengcheng Z – Minor Bursary for ‘Sustainable Global Food Production’.
Monash programScholars
We received so many amazing entries, and prizes were awarded for the best sweet and savoury dishes (shown above):
Three of our Year 10 students, Lydia, Alice and Georgia were awarded places in the prestigious Monash Scholars program. The program is offered by Monash University to give high potential students a unique head start into university life. It provides opportunities for personal and academic development and enables participants to expand their network of like-minded peers.
In September we held a ShellyChef Mystery Box Challenge for our community, organised by our Food Studies staff. Students had to use one or more ingredients from the ten mystery box items to prepare their dish. Due to the lockdown judges weren’t able to taste the food, so winners were selected based on creativity and presentation.
In November our Year 6 students participated in a Service Learning activity about energy poverty and constructed a solar light as part of the Solar Buddy Program. The lights will be sent to someone who lives in extreme poverty along with a letter from each student. The girls learnt that 1 in 10 people live in energy poverty and they had the opportunity to reflect on how they live compared to those receiving the light.
• Meg M (Year 11) for best sweet dish (Senior School) for chocolate cake with vanilla cream and strawberries.
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• Francesca W (Year 5) for best sweet dish (Junior School) for strawberry meringue roulade
Solar Buddy Program
ShellyChef Mystery Box Challenge
In the Junior Secondary Poetry category, Kyley C (Year 7) was awarded the winning prize and Edie H–M (Year 9) received a high commendation (as runner up). Roshni W (Year 9) won the first prize in the Junior Secondary Short Story category with a piece she wrote for the Year 9 Genre Unit. Julia W (Year 7) received a high commendation. Some of our budding writers are pictured with Ms Chanie Stock, Head of English 7–10.
Congratulations to our prize winners and commendations in the 2021 Glen Eira My Brother Jack Awards that recognise the outstanding literary achievements of people who live/work/study in Glen Eira.
My Brother Jack Award 2021 winners
• Ava S (Year 6) for best savoury dish (Junior School) for homemade pizza with chicken, tomato and mushrooms
• Mille L (Year 11) for best savoury dish (Senior School) for Katsu chicken curry
From around the school
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Year 7 Humanities, Ancient Egypt
Student work
Myah S, Year 11
During the last lockdown the Year 7 Humanities classes were very busy researching and creating an Ancient Egypt artefact. The girls were extremely creative and constructed amazing artefacts.
Myah S, Year 11
Rose B, Year 2
Misha P, Year 3
The chorus of creatures, unseen in the Justdark peace and simplicity, The happiest place on the earth.
The rhythmic kneading of the dough. Fold. fold.
Maggie R, Year 10
The red ochre land, the scrub and the flies
Rosie D, Year 10
Charlotte J, Year 8
Holly H, Year 3 Amelia D, Year 12
Into a fiery embrace, like a butterfly, emerging from its chrysalis Withcase. crevices and cracks, hypnotic breath rises and falls. Relax. Flourrelax. coats every surface, like a winter Morewonderland,laughter, loud and joyful than Notplanned.acare in the world nor a thought in the simplyhead,awarm, fresh loaf of bread.
The cattle who breathe, stamp and sigh
Student work
Stephanie K, Year 11
The heart of the country
Poems in response to the prompt ‘Happiness’
Brilliant-goldenSunflowers sunflowers, stretching to the Dancingsky in the breeze, swaying under the Watchingsun as excitement swoops and Assoars,kindness leaps and runs. Buttery-soft sunflowers, gathered in a warm Sittingembrace,withpatience, watching as life goes Lemonyon,petals gently drooping, with contentment and well-earned rest, Tender hands caressing them, planting them in peace, sprinkling them with hope. Euphoric-yellow sunflowers, stretching to the Dancingsky, in the breeze, never to truly die.
The hum of the oven vibrates, glowing deep gold.
Those cold black nights, by a flickering Joyouslyfire tired, satisfied and warm
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Jay L, Year 10
Hope II
Annabelle W, Year 7
Nina F, Year 10
Ava M, Year 11
Mother and swollen Belly, bound by peace Within and without.
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Blunt as grieving and Growing, blood and flesh Grasp what truth remains.
Izzy A, Year 7
Millie L, Year 11
Beneath the bold And the beguiling, The grandeur that frosts Raw that lies below.
On a swollen summer night like this, movement and sound lulls to a distance, the clouds lounge across an empty eaten sky suspended in sweltering silence, and in the darkness the sombre flowers softy sway, as the time between the fading moon and the waking sun stretches out underwater to eternity.
Quiet,Shh.
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The town’s stray flea-peppered dogs sleep in restless lulls as they await the broom-beating heat of the June-July summer, when the spires and columns of Desecration Inn dance and melt onto its atoning inhabitants. But hush, listen now
Livy E, Year 11
Shannon V, Year 11
Victoria F, Year 10
Student work
Hanna L, Year 7
as the dreamless day breaks and the town begins to wake and ache, the wet-nosed sun stirring all but the air …
Angela Y, Year 1
now, as you float through the sweat-oiled streets of Lathanh. The late spring wool-wrapped whisper of a breeze carries you on its back as you weave through wide-open windows into the dove-dull stirrings of the townspeople. It is night, and the sea hums and blows ever-so-softly into the swollen ears of the misplaced mothers and grandmothers, the widows and maids, bed-bound masters, caretakers, soldiers, sellers and craftsmen, the day-bathing boy children and pence-pretty ingenues. Only you are watching the dustpan sea as it lullabies its litter of fishing nets, washcloths, scarves, milk powder, fruit pits and incense to sleep, tender and deathless.
Creative responses to Under Milk Wood
And all the sleepers of the town have forgotten to dream tonight, as they did last night and all the nights before that. But forgive them, for the spaceless, timespoiled air of Lathanh leaves little room in their houses for those mirthful fairies who deliver parcels of musk and slippers, or take-you-by-the-hand sentries who prance and dally and tip young maids onto treble-thin domes. There are no dreams here, though the night breathes languidly on, shallow and lukewarm in its stiff-necked sunfall.
Mia W, Year 11
The clouds have only just parted to reveal the sky’s eyes, cracking open to bleed the beginning streaks of sunlight through its lashes, when Miss Daisy Robbits, one-month business university student drop out, pride turned milk sour, in floral dress and straw sandals, piping tea and new textbooks seen only once in soilfingernailed hands, pit-pats and pops over to her box, far left in the corner.
Jinyu X, Year 2
Last semester, the Unit 2 Literature class studied Under Milk Wood by Dylan Thomas. Inspired by the opening of Thomas’ text, here are extracts from two students’ creative responses.
And all these inhabitants, clutched in sweaty palm; closed and huddled under the washed down streetlamps, lazily blinking their soft rays across the garden this mist ridden night, are on the edge of restlessness as the sky opens towards dawn. Softly now, to the garden, sandwiched between skyscrapers, softly you can hear their snores against the damp pillowed dirt. In boxes of dark oaky wood, upon a padding of ground they are resting, bathing in the darkness. The primrose, hibiscus, strawberries, tomatoes, and sunset muskmallow. The cabbage, orchid, marigold, orange, and sweet potatoes. In the silence you can hear their breath. Lounging, and awaiting the mirrored daylight …
Despite the challenges of ongoing lockdowns and only meeting face-to-face twice this year, all the volunteers on the Shelford Parents Association (SPA) have been incredibly busy and efficient in organising activities and initiatives and planning a range of in person and virtual events.
• World Teacher’s Day thank you gift
• Christmas stall
• Strategic Directions Forum
• Year 12 Students Care packages
Shelford Parents’ Association
While we can all agree 2021 was a huge and challenging year, for World Teacher’s Day, SPA organised a thank you gift for our amazing teachers and staff at Shelford. SPA wanted to acknowledge what a year it has been and how the teaching staff have been positive and supportive role models and leaders in our school. We thank you, for all you do to ensure our students remain at the centre of our focus here at Shelford.
• Fundraising which was limited this year, with our two main sources of income being the Uniform Sale, and the Mango Fundraiser.
We also kicked off some other Initiatives to engage and support the Community:
While Father’s Day was in lockdown in 2021, our families celebrated by the inaugural Father’s Day Camp. In lockdown our families camped in their backyards and living rooms. They got dressed up and camped or glamped in style. We loved the unique takes of what Father’s Day camping means to each family, while some families took a traditional camping approach with tents and sleeping bags, some fathers were treated to lavish glamping and facials and other fathers to lounge forts and medieval dress ups. We love that so many families got involved, which supported the National Homelessness Collective.
Throughout 2021 were still able to run the •following: SPA Parents Drinks and Nibbles
• Mother’s Day Breakfast which raised nearly $500 for the St Kilda Mums charity
• Father’s Day stall
Andy Langridge and Andrew Mott President and Vice President
• Justin Coulson Parent Presentation
• Funding of Citizenship and Shelly Spirit Awards for students.
• Father’s Day ‘Camp at Home’ which raised over $200 for the Shelford Winter Appeal for Sleeping Bags for Homelessness
Father’s Day ‘Camp at Home’
• Mother’s Day Stall
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• Parents business advertising –any business run by a member of the community can place a free advertisement on Shelly or our app. We are currently running a pilot, and this will be rolled out more broadly this year.
I continue to thank all the volunteers at Shelford for all they do. We have a beautiful community that will do anything for our girls, and this is evident in the passion of the committee and everyone who volunteers throughout the year.
Despite the ever-changing landscape courtesy of COVID-19, everyone did their best to be creative and remain active during Semester 2.
Athletics
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Both Junior and Senior School Athletics squads had a large turn out to training sessions at the beginning of Term 3. Although the SYDSA and GSV competitions were unable to go ahead, all students are commended on their dedication and enthusiasm in attending training sessions. We look forward to having large numbers involved in the well-developed Athletics program in the year ahead.
Term 3 started off with GSV Round 1 games and practices. Students represented Shelford at Volleyball, Soccer and Badminton. Athletes attended early morning 7am practices and even managed to fit in Round 1 games! Highlights included some game wins for Junior, Intermediate and Senior Badminton teams, and a win for Junior and Senior Volleyball teams. With lockdown starting the Friday of Round 1 GSV Sport came to a sudden halt for the remainder of Term 3 and Term 4.
Students rallied and were quick to get involved with online ‘Energy Hub’ for Junior School students and ‘Shelly Strong’ for Senior School students. The incredibly talented Ellie Sullivan led students, teachers and even parents in online fitness sessions. The Pilates, inspired strength sessions for senior students, and body strength infused with dance for junior students were enjoyed by many who attended.
Girls Sport Victoria
Online physical wellbeing
We look forward to the return of all School House Sport and GSV in 2022 and thank all of those who got involved in 2021!
Sport, Health and PE
OneNutbush!sessionsaw
When they returned to school, Year 3–6 students were eager to return back to Energy Hub with Mr O’Connell.
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During the month of October, Junior School students participated in the Glen Eira Active Schools Championship. Students were encouraged to remain fit and healthy by walking, playing with pets or completing virtual classes. Students who were physically active ticked off sessions on their Golden Ticket before submitting these tickets to help Shelford compete to become the Active Schools Champion. Congratulations to Lina A who won the FitBit Ace for her consistent dedication to remain active throughout the month of October.
the girls taking part in Baila, which is a Brazilian street dance, with the inspiring and energetic Michelle. The girls were able to express themselves through the range of movements whilst being challenged both rhythmically and physically.
Prior to the mid-year holidays, Energy Hub participants enjoyed the opportunity to take part in Dance Club. The large group of girls who attended both sessions experienced a variety of different dances. Students enjoyed forming lines for some Bush Dancing, as well as moving in circles to the Macarena. Some of the younger students led with way when it came to the
Energy Hub
Active Schools –Go for Gold!
During online learning, students in Year 3 participated in a puppet theatre unit. Students created their very own puppets out of homemade materials, to accompany their own theatre. Here is a selection of puppets and theatres created by students, they incorporated everything from curtains, backdrops, props and even ... lighting!
Instrumental Soirees and VCE Music Performance workshops
Puppet theatre, Year 3
House Performing Arts
Nativity play Prep–Year 2
Very quickly, the captains got to work writing scripts that explored this prompt incorporating elements and components of Drama, Music, Dance and stagecraft. Despite the many interruptions and extensions to the rehearsal schedule and the frequent changes to the final performance date, students across all year levels worked tirelessly to prepare their Unfortunately,performances.
Over the semester we were able to run our regular instrumental soiree’s over Teams. Sitting in the comfort of our lounge rooms it was fantastic to see the students perform and show what they had been working on while in lockdown. We were also able to run several workshops for our VCE Music Performances, firstly with Ms Michelle Nguyen, who was able to work with our piano students while sitting in a hotel room in Darwin. More recently our VCE Music students were able to perform their full program to Mr Roland Yeung, a former Head of Music at a large independent school as well as former Chief assessor for VCE Music performance. The students were able to get feedback on their performances, as well as getting invaluable performance experience.
While for much of Semester 2 our ensembles had been unable to rehearse together we were able to put together several virtual ensembles, students involved in the Year 7 Band Program performed A Mozart Melody, while the Concert Band created a virtual ensemble of Groovee! By Richard S Saucedo.
due to Melbourne’s sixth lockdown, the event was cancelled two days before it was to go ahead. Thankfully, we were able to capture some of the students’ work during the dress and technical rehearsals on camera.
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Junior Drama Prep–Year 4
Performing Arts
Ensembles
Back to onsite learning, students were busily learning choreography, dialogue and blocking in Term 4 for The Nativity Play. Here we can see Prep and Year 1 students sharing their spatial awareness and dancing skills, busily rehearsing!
At the beginning of the year, our four Performing Arts House Captains, Jazi H (Thomas), Eliza H (Blundell), Olivia S (Lloyd) and Meg M (Langley) were provided with the prompt #Herstory for this year’s Senior School House Performing Arts Festival. The prompt, #Herstory encourages students to re-write an aspect of history or a well-known story from a feminist perspective.
More recently students, staff and parents have been involved in a large-scale virtual choir with Bop Girl. It was fantastic to see so many people involved in what will become a small memento of our time in lockdown.
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Using Australian as an Inspiration, the students were provided with numerous Prescribed Structures based on a person, an event, an issue, a place, an artwork, or an icon from Australian life to select for their devised solo performance.
Jazi Hall created a solo performance based upon the life and times of Florence Broadhurst and Eliza Hargreaves created a solo performance based upon the novel, The Castlemaine murders: a Phryne Fisher Bothmystery.students began the playmaking process of brainstorming, researching, improvising and scripting these performances early in Term 3 and despite numerous COVID related set-backs, were very pleased to finally present their pieces for filming.
To prepare for this performance examination, Unit 4 Drama students selected one Prescribed Structure from ten possible options to devise a Solo Performance. Some of the Prescribed Structure characters chosen were: The Princess, The Concierge, Narcissus, Cleopatra, The Film Director and The Performer. Over a period of 13 weeks, students developed their solo performances using an articulated playmaking process. Through researching, scripting, improvising and rehearsing, students devised a 7-minute polished performance that also incorporated elements of theatre design, conventions of eclectic performance styles and application of symbolism.
In addition to this, students examined the theory, conventions and practice of a range of drama practitioners working within selected non-naturalistic performance styles to create works that aimed to go beyond a representation of real life as it is lived.
VCE Drama Unit 2 Devised PerformancesSolo
For this year’s VCE Drama Unit 1 and Unit 3 subjects, students were invited to develop and present short, Devised Ensemble Performances of their own Ascreation.such, the five works showcased at the performance evening were created in response to the given stimulus ‘Lost & WhenFound’.devising their ensemble performances, students were directed to develop works that incorporated an application of symbol and transformation of character, time and place. Students were also asked to manipulate conventions, dramatic elements and production areas to create and to communicate meaning in their pieces and to represent character.
The VCE Unit 2 Drama class presented their Devised Solo Performances for assessment mid Term 4.
In the second week of October, the VCE Drama Unit 4 students presented their Solo Performance Examinations at Kingston City Hall. This Solo Performance Examination constitutes 35% of their total score for the subject and as such, it is the focus of the students’ time and work in Semester 2.
VCE Drama Units 1 and 3 Devised PerformanceEnsemble
VCE Unit 4 Devised Solo Performance Examination
Given that a large component of their preparation for this performance was completed during the extended period of remote learning, each student should feel a great deal of pride and satisfaction with the work that they have created. Their resilience, spirit and creativity are to be especially commended.
You can read our student reflections of the three themed weeks that were held in the second half of 2021.
Enterprise and Innovation
The Arts Alive challenge focused on the three disciplines of Visual Art, Music and Performance, linking them together was the common stimulus of The Beatles album cover ‘Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’.
Isobel H and Sasha K
We participated in three activities that focused on sustainable solutions we can adopt to our everyday lives. The first activity involved learning how to make beeswax wraps – a sustainable alternative to plastic food packaging like gladwrap. Students were encouraged to bring in their own cotton fabric to make the wraps, further increasing the element of Wesustainability.thenmade an upcycled Christmas gift which was comprised of an old pot or cup and a plant. The last activity – one that was joyfully received by the whole year level – involved the year level walking down to the Op shops with a budget and selecting items to parade later in the week. This day allowed everyone to learn while tapping into their creative side. We completed a ‘Plog-o-thon’ all the way to Elwood beach – picking up litter while getting Environmentfitter.
with Mandy Money focusing on financial literacy. We are very grateful because we gained many new skills and a much broader range of knowledge on these topics. The CEO of HoMie, Nick Pearce, taught us about the homelessness in Melbourne. He told us about his idea of HoMie to make an eco-friendly brand where by the profits go to charities that help the homeless population. CEO of PredictiveHire, Barbara Hyman, taught us what it means to be a strong and confident woman in any industry.
Zoe K and Gemma B
Environment week was a fantastic finale to a year of trials and tribulations. The first two presentations from Ms Stock and fashion brand Kookai about sustainable and slow fashion were not only enlightening but compelling. It was incredible hearing about how Kookai attempts to produce clothing in a way that is the friendliest to the environment and about the support they provide to families in Fiji.
In the art group the students made a giant mask out of cardboard, tape and hot glue. We got inspiration from celebrities on the cover of the album. They looked Theincredible.drama group wrote performances inspired by the Beatles and included some of the songs. Each performance was unique and special.
Arts Alive
Year 9 Challenge
Enterprise and Innovation Week took place during the height of remote learning. We began the week with a careers session learning how to construct a resume and how to participate in a job interview. We practiced how to answer some questions and how to dress appropriately for an interview. Many of us have used these skills to successfully get Weemployed.hadasession
Our Year 9 Challenge is an inquiry-based program emphasising the role students play in the learning process by asking them to engage with an idea or topic in an active way. The overall goal of an inquiry-based approach is for students to make meaning of what they are learning about and to understand how a concept works in a real-world context.
For the group work component, the year level was split into 12 different groups where we designed a promotional advert for a weird and wacky product.
The music group presented two music pieces by The Beatles. They sounded astonishing! Everyone showed their talents in the Arts and put in the effort that shone through when we presented.
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Week ended on a high note, everyone meeting together at Federation Square to complete a walking tour focusing on sustainability features found in the CBD. We then walked to Botanical Gardens to finish the week off with an exciting scavenger hunt. All in all, this was a week that was educational and enjoyed by everyone involved.
Georgie W and Annabel P
Environment Week
The camp is designed to focus on people’s perceptions of themselves and what they can achieve, through taking part in physical and mental challenges. For the Shelford students, these included abseiling, the tiny Summit Window platform which required trust that they will be held safely, team laser skirmish, a giant wire swing and a sky-bridge which relied on balance and tenacity. As students fell, they were encouraged to get up again and keep moving forward, a fitting
metaphor for what has been endured over the last two years.
The three days away enabled new relationships to flourish and emerging leaders to find their feet. It was an overwhelmingly positive experience and has instilled our newest VCE cohort with an understanding that every obstacle can be conquered if they are surrounded by good, supportive, people, and that they are willing to take the first step.
Senior School camps
It was a wonderful week and after not being able to experience camp for two years the girls thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to engage with their peers and create some great memories.
obstacles like a low ATAR. Leah Lambert, a private Career Practitioner gave a wonderful insight into how LinkedIn and networking can be very powerful tools for our students in years to come. Mrs Kafka gave students strategies on how to approach their Year 12 English texts.
After the disruption and uncertainty caused by the pandemic, the Year 10s and their teachers felt a sense of relief and great excitement as they loaded bags onto buses and headed to Gippsland for three days at The Summit Outdoor Adventure Park.
Some of the activities including visiting the Van Gough Exhibition at The Lume, ten pin bowling and laser tag at Strike Bowling Melbourne Central and a University Tour of either University of Melbourne, RMIT or ACU.
Taste of Tertiary Conference
Year 10 Camp: The Summit
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In December our Year 11 students attended their ‘Taste of Tertiary Conference’ at University College, University of Melbourne. The conference was designed to give students some preparation for Year 12 and an insight into what tertiary education is like. Staying in a residential college was new for them and was a great way to experience living on campus. The girls enjoyed the individual rooms with ensuites – not the usual accommodation for camp! – and eating in the dining hall.
Speakers at the conference included Lucy Bartholomew, an Australian Ultra Marathon Runner who spoke on motivation and resilience and shared the amazing story of her recent running of the Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory. Three of our past Shelford students Mary, Elise and Daena, gave students ideas on how they could best prepare for Year 12 and university study. Eliza and Maddie, two recent university graduates spoke about their journeys to their current dream careers – including some big
The Summit is famous for their Monster Course which is an evolving obstacle course which demands physical exertion and teamwork to conquer. The Shelford students undertook this challenge once and then were faced with the task of doing it again; although this second lap seemed daunting and even impossible for some, the encouragement from the other members of their group and our Summit coaches, was enough to get every team member over the line for a second time. Rewarded with a zip down the waterslide, our visit to The Summit will undoubtedly stick in the students’ minds as a highlight of their time at Shelford.
Despite the relentlessly hot days and then an extreme thunderstorm which knocked out the power for the last 18 hours of camp, the students maintained their good humour and arrived home on the Friday exhausted and satisfied.
Pictured right: Ida Washington viewing the newly unveiled plaque that is still on display in our current library.
That year the student library committee held a book sale in the new library, with the profits sent to the Children’s Book Council. The Parents’ Association also made a generous donation to develop the Junior Fiction section of the library. It was a community effort to get the library up and running, and it soon became a learning hub central to the School.
Shelford history
The photo right shows the grand new building, with large windows and a cohort of students ready to explore the new space. It comprised of a bluecarpeted library room, as well as an adjoining discussion room, and a ‘fully equipped geography room’. On the lower floor were several primary classrooms, much like the setup we have today.
Last year marked 50 years since the Ida Washington Library Wing was built at Shelford. On Sunday 6 June 1971, the new building was officially opened by Sir Brian Hone, the Victoria adviser to the Commonwealth Government on library building, and former Headmaster of Melbourne Grammar School. The two-storey building was dedicated to the Headmistress of Shelford, Ida Washington, for her services to the school over the previous eight years.
Of course, the Shelford grounds have changed a lot since this building was opened, but the spaces still foster great discussion and a love of learning. Whilst we don’t see many students with large piles of reference material due to much of their research now being conducted online, we still love to see students in the library, making the most of all of the resources at their fingertips.
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Members of the student library committee that year remarked on how ‘spacious and well equipped’ the building was, as well as how fortunate they were to have the discussion room. They also noted that the wide tables were ‘useful for accommodating large piles of reference materials for the enthusiastic student.’
Shelfordian Isabel Martin
Our Junior School students excitedly watched Issy competing in the Paralympics and sent her messages through the Paralympics website, with some also creating signs of encouragement, as pictured above.
Isabel Martin, Class of 2017, made the Shelford community proud last year as she represented Australia in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. Having previously competed at the Osaka Cup and Under 25 world championships, Issy took her sporting achievements to the next level, joining the women’s wheelchair basketball team, the Gliders.
When asked about becoming a Paralympian, Issy said: ‘It was amazing! I honestly went in with no idea what to expect, and it was so much more challenging and more rewarding than what I anticipated.’
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The Paralympics looked slightly different to usual this year due to COVID-19, with doubts as to whether it would even go ahead, no spectator crowds and limitations on the interactions between athletes. Nonetheless, Issy enjoyed the whole experience and said she learnt a lot about teamwork and resilience. She was proud to wear the green and gold, and to be amongst some of the top athletes in the Nowworld.back home, Issy is continuing to score goals as she pursues a Masters of Dietetics. Issy would also like to say thank you the Shelford students and staff for all of their messages of support along her athletic journey, and she loves being a part of the Shelford community.
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8 July 2021. Pat worked at Shelford from 1968 to 1986. She was a beloved French teacher and became Deputy Principal in 1980.
Get involved
We congratulate Shelfordian Simone Lewis (1998) on the arrival of her baby girl Zara in September. Simone is also a staff member at Shelford. You can see a photo of baby Zara on page 6.
Birth
Class of 1969 yearly reunion
The Class of 1969 had their annual reunion catch up at Rococo in St Kilda on 13 March 2021. Pictured right, using their ‘school names’ are back row: Michelle Dear, Lyn Blake, Jane Greenwood, Barbara Godby; front row: Jenny Pitt, Louise Marks, Kay Webb, Marion Wright, Phylis Sturgess, Sue Giles.
Shelfordians have been active in the Shelford community across the year. In 2021 Shelfordians returned as ambassadors, sports coaches, tutors, guest speakers, mentors and have motivated our students with their experiences and knowledge.
was awarded the Outstanding Secondary Teacher Award as part of the Victorian Education Excellence Awards 2021. She currently works at Albert Park College as the Head of Mathematics.
Awards and career
If you would like to get involved at Shelford, please be contact Jessica Coffey at shelfordians@shelford.vic. edu.au.
DrDeceasedPatGray(Connole)
KateMarriageFreeland
Sarah Bartfeld (2005) was recently awarded a PhD, specialising in Marketing. Sarah’s PhD is titled ‘Celebrity, Persuasion and Social Media: Digital Influencers’ use of Instagram Strategies to Increase Follower Loyalty’.
(nee Reis, 2010) married Nick on 23 April 2021 at Quat Quatta. Kate’s Maid of Honour was fellow Shelfordian Nikita Coleman (2010). Nick proposed to Kate while travelling the US in early 2020. After attempting two dates for an engagement party that wasn’t meant to be, Kate and Nick threw their energy into planning the wedding during lockdown! It was a lot of fun to see it come to life and celebrate with their nearest and dearest – many of whom lockdowns had prevented from seeing in well over a year!
20 June 1939–
Leanne Stuchbery (1975) is enjoying retirement.
Shelfordian news
Louise, pictured below in purple at the front, celebrates the 30-year reunion of the Class of 1983
donations to our archive collection.
Vale: Heather Rushworth (1966)
Shelfordian news
Always seeing the best side in everyone, avoiding resentment and bitterness, she was optimistic and cheerful. Occasionally too trusting, but despite setbacks Heather showed me that it is better to remain positive and without regrets.
Heather (11 November 1949–30 September 2021) was bright and clever, always curious and open minded. Creative at a personal and professional level. Heather worked as a primary school teacher including at Geelong Grammar, South Yarra. She was an Interior Designer for many years and retrained in jewellery making, crafting individual and colourful jewellery and fashioning fantastic interiors. Heather was humorous, intelligent, a good Bridge player, a terrific cook, resourceful and a generous host.
I am grateful to have shared many years of friendship and miss her.
Any alumni who are interested in organising an event or connecting with one of our regional or interstate Branches are invited to contact: Jessica Coffey, Community Relations Coordinator WeTelephoneshelfordians@shelford.vic.edu.au95247467arealsoalwaysinterestedinreceiving
Reflection by Marian Hosking
27
In his eulogy David described Louise’s biggest talent as being her ability to link family and friends. Beneficiaries of this were the Shelford alumni of 1983 who Louise worked tirelessly to track and gather for their 30-year reunion, which
Louise (31 March 1966–23 April 2021) grew up in Mount Waverley the youngest of four children. From Bayview Primary School she gained a scholarship to attend Shelford CEGGS completing her HSC in 1983. During her time at Shelford she excelled academically and was a member of the choir. She was Lloyd House Drama Captain and directed the winning house play in 1983.
was hailed by all as a great success. A brilliant scholar, devoted mother, wise counsellor, loving friend and champagne enthusiast, she will be dearly missed.
Louise passed away suddenly from a brain aneurysm leading to an acute hemorrhage and is survived by David, Chris, Joel, sisters Maree and Andrea and the extended Phillips family.
In 1989 she married David Phillips, brother of Dianne (1984). They spent five years working abroad in New Zealand and Sweden, returning to Melbourne to raise their two children, Chris and Joel. Louise travelled broadly for work and pleasure including presenting at numerous international scientific conferences, spending time scuba diving for seaweed samples off the Galapagos Islands and more recently learning lace making and glass making in Venice.
Vale: Dr Louise Elizabeth Phillips (nee Smith, 1983)
After leaving school she weaved her way through a number of careers, completing in total five university degrees, including two science degrees, a PhD focused on classification of red seaweeds and a Masters in Public Health. She ran the Australian and New Zealand Haemostasis Registry at Monash Uni for several years. Musically gifted she moved on to manage the Australian Boys Choir and the Berwick Youth Choir. More recently while continuing to work part-time as an academic consultant, she used her extensive creative talents of sewing, embroidery, lace making, and ceramics amongst others to produce treasured gifts for family and friends.
28 QUAERITE | Summer 2021–2022
The Shelfordian Nepean Branch caught up on 30 July 2021, at the perfect time around Melbourne’s lockdowns. With 17 Shelfordians attending lunch, with graduates from 1957–1991, and two Caulfield Grammarian husbands who met in shared classes and are described as ‘basically Shelfordians’, the group enjoyed the beautiful Sorrento Sailing Couta Boat Club and proved to all they still know the School Song. Thank you Virginia Cable (Richards) for organising the lunch and bringing so many Shelfordians together.
Friday 12
Reunions and events
4
Online reunions
Our online reunions included particularly entertaining recollections of Shelford from alumni and former staff alike. We look forward to inviting these groups onsite in 2022.
• 20 October: Class of 2021 (1 year)
•
Nepean Branch Luncheon
Thursday 17
We were delighted to host our reunions face-to-face at the start of 2021, the second half of the year held lunches with both the Queensland and Nepean Branches. We held our first online reunions, which included the Vintage Old Girls and also Classes of 1990, 1991, 2000 and 2001.
Queensland Shelfordians’ Luncheon
Luncheon at the Emerald Lakes Golf Club, Carrara on 25 September 2021 saw Shelfordians catch up from across Queensland. Thank you to Ann Dashwood for organising.
Reunions 2022
• August: Classes of 2011 (10 years) and 2017 (5 years)
• March: Classes of 2019 and 2020 (1 year)
Friday March: Classes of 1962 (60 years), 1972 (50 years) and 1982 (40 years)
Thursday
Friday
• 20 May: Classes of 1990, 1991 and 1992 (30 years); and Classes of 2000, 2001 and 2002 (20 years)
Mrs H Zhang
Shelford Donors 2021
Mr & Ms A Contessotto
Ms H Wang
Every care has been taken with this list, however if an error has been made, please accept our apologies and contact Ms Modina Monaf on 9524 7333 or mmonaf@shelford.vic.edu.au.
Mr & Ms T Diakoumis
Mr & Mrs J Perry
29
Ms M Ambrose
Mr B Kondopoulos & Ms
Mr & Mrs G Lochhead
Mr D Maccarone & Ms L
Mr S Hyde & Ms M Pile
Mr M Rowe & Ms R Lake
Mr P & Mrs C Walker
Mrs H Wan & Mr Z Wu
Mr & Mrs A Lambart
Mr L Yu & Mrs L Xie
Mr W Cramer & Ms C Le
Mr Y Liu & Mrs Z Li
Mr Y Zhang & Mrs Y Li
Mr & Mrs C Evans
Mr C Wall & Mrs J Wall Mrs
Rev & Rev C Prowd
Mr D Roberts & Ms A Laffy
Mr & Mrs D Carabott
Mrs K El-Sheikh
Mr D Evans & Ms Y Duan
A Xynos
Mr & Mrs P Kirkilis
Mr D Kurniawan & Mrs C
Mr & Mrs M Orner
Mr R Louey
Mr J Zhang
Ms K Bond & Ms R Fuller
Mr G Aghion & Ms P MrAdeney&Mrs P Albert
MrTraficante&MrsA Dubar
Mr & Mrs C Watt
Mr W Zhang & Ms H Zhao
MrHocking&MrsJ Denver
MrHowlettSSanderson & Ms T MrBenjaminSSeketa & Dr L
Mr & Ms S Feiglin
Mr D Kovacs
Mr & Mrs S Banerjee
N Fogale
Mr V Bouzas & Mrs S PashaMrBouzasJBuordolone & Ms J MrSuckling&MrsD Burgess
Mr & Mrs M Henderson
MrCarrickVTsyrlin & Mrs I Reznik
Mr M Wang & Mrs C Zhang
Mr D Wilson & Ms N
Mr A Yoshith & Ms V Karnati
Mr X Zhang & Ms J Lin
Major Shelford sponsor Marshall Rushford Director of Belle Property Caulfield T: 03 8532 5200 W: belleproperty.com/caulfield
Mr J Arndt & Ms K Hendry
MrMrMrMrMrMrBrun-CramerA&MrsMCrookW&MrsADaoBDavies&MsJPowerJDeeA&MrsCDellADenham&MsS
Mrs & Mr P Gee
Mr S Ablethorpe & Mrs R
Mr & Ms J Peiris
Mr P Subramanian & Mrs P
Mr B Lu & Mrs H Tan
The School community has generously supported the Shelford Building Fund in 2021 and we thank everyone who contributed.
Mr & Mrs J Ballester
Mr & Mrs M Boulton
Mr A Higgins & Ms M
Dr S Karuppasami & Mrs V
MrMrMrMrGurumurthy&MrsMKentSKentwell&MrsMKessel&MrsCKilbane
Mr B King & Mrs K Walter
Mr & Mrs B O’Mara
Mr & Ms A Perkins
Mr M Korsa & Ms S Kiel
Lu
Mr & Mrs T Armstrong
Mr C Cohen & Ms J Zantuck
Mr D Liu & Ms S Wang
Ms K Preski
Mr M & Ms N Ralphsmith
Mr & Dr G Sigley
Mr & Mrs D White
Mr F Wang & Ms G Liu
Ms Z Helman
Mr A Gavan & Dr D Louis
Mrs S Xia & Mr J Mei
Mr D & Mrs K Freedman
Mr H Yang & Ms J Wang
Mr D Ying & Ms N Conwell
MrKang&Mrs B Keyte
Mr A O’Bryan & Ms J Firkin
Mr S Heng & Mrs C Ti
Mr M McLeish & Ms F Harris
Mr X Wang & Ms Y Chen
Mr & Mrs C Johnson
Mr R Fais & Ms V Graham
Mr & Mrs S Christopoulos
MrBailey&Mrs J Macky
Ms K Williams
Mr M Mainwaring & Ms R
Mr A Condon & Ms S Benn
Mr & Mrs C McCormack
Mr & Mrs J Cowle
Mr & Mrs A Naughton
Mr J Le Souef & Ms C
Mr & Mrs C Batzios
Mr & Mrs M Gupta
Dr & Mrs T Grant
Mr A Joshi & Ms M Prabhu
Mr F Sachinidis & Ms L
Mrs & Mr R Kyte
Mr T Vo & Mrs L Quach
Mr S Yang & Mrs J Zhao
Mrs J Fielding
MrsScholesCLi& Mr X Wang
Mr Q Chen & Ms L Dai
Mrs L Wei
Mr & Dr P Benveniste
Mr & Mrs D McCutcheon
Mr H Le & Mrs H Nguyen
Miss M Hafner & Mr C
L Chia
Ms K Cowen
Mr & Dr R Want
Mr J Fay & Mrs S Moir
Mr B Wei & Mrs R Shi
Ms S Durban
Mr J Xu & Ms Y Liang
MrKelly&Mrs M Abramovich
Mr H Zhao & Ms W Zhang
Ms J Barkla
Mr S Pandey & Ms D Goel
Mr M Ritchie & Ms L Curtis
Mr & Mrs H Van Dort
Mr & Mrs J Attana
Ms H Chan
Mr & Mrs A Perara
Mr & Mrs R Ray
Mr D Gangi & Mrs C Masci
MrJegerajan&MrsY Matsumoto
MrBridesonFMartin & Ms K Tuckey
Mr S Yang & Ms L Jin
Ms S O’Kane
MrMsHoldensonZHassanFHe&Ms
Mr P Roy & Ms N Tigga
Mr & Mrs T Gillard
Ms M Chalk
Mr G & Mrs D Nicholls
Mr V Rubtsov & Mrs N
Mr B Sirota & Dr I
Ms K Chen
Mr W Yang & Mrs X Li
MrMrGobbartCMuscoTNguyen & Dr L Hoang
Mr T Terdputham & Mrs K
Mr H Yu
Ms S Yang & Mr H Chen
Ms Q Zhang
Mr & Mrs E Casey
Mr P Beare & Dr N Urquhart
Mr & Mrs D McShae
Ms X Guo & Mr W Zhang
Mr & Mrs C Dolianitis
Mr K Jin & Ms C Xu
Mr & Mrs G McKenzie
Mr & Mrs M Whitney
Ms D Zaslavsky
MrKravtsova&MrsO Ruckel
Ms T Battersby
Ms B Zervas
Mr T Li & Ms B Cao
Dr S Cegarra Garcia & Ms C Fenton
Dr & Mrs P Enten
Ms C Qian
Mr R Chen & Mrs Y Ge
Mr & Mrs S Farrar
MrMrMrMrMrProfMrMrMrNellaiappan&MrsTSullivanJSun&MsHLan&MrsGSvensenDSviridov&DrNMukhamedovaD&MrsJSwiatloPTan&MsBCheaWTang&MrsJTangLTang&MsJLiang
Mr D Gillard & Ms K Dennis
MrMsMrMsBrownKHindhaugh&MrsJHooperXHuZHuang&MrsR
Mr L Xie & Mrs K Jin
Mr T Lin & Ms A Huang
Mr G Berg
Mr C Lim & Ms C Owng
Mr & Ms N Pellier-Cuit
Mr D D’Orazio & Mrs N
Mr & Mrs A Langridge
Mr L Song & Ms Q Du
Mr M Juan & Ms C Fang
Mr Z Zheng
Our generous donors
Ms S Catt & Mr J Smart
Mr H Shi & Mrs W Tong
Mr J Li & Mrs Z Chen
Mr Y Huang & Ms S Wang
Mr A Martyn & Ms A
Ms K Michael
Mr D Moreton & Ms K MrBaderNMorgan & Ms
MrSheldrick&MrsS Sen
Mr Z Shi & Ms Y Wu
Mr & Dr F Bernard
Mr & Dr S Connaughton
Mr & Dr J Sibia
Mr & Mrs J Wewer
MrMsStaffordMWu&MsM Wynne
Mr & Mrs A Eisen
Dr & Dr D Balan
Dr & Dr R Laging
Mr & Mrs A Patterson
MrMrMrVigderovichBSmith&MrsCSmithDSmyth&Ms
Mr V Shanmugam & Mrs V MrKaliyaperumalFShengFang & Ms P Xu
MrMrNgamjariyangkul&MrsMThomasJThompson&Ms N
Prof & Dr B Williams
Artwork by Mia E, Year 10
