QUAERITE | The Journal of Shelford Girls’ Grammar
WINTER 2021
I am confident the School will continue to thrive under Katrina’s leadership and under the new Chair of the Board, Pam IRussell.maybe
has been instrumental in stimulating the growth of the School, which has in recent times consistently ranked in the top academic schools in the nation. It is no surprise that Zena is proud of the outstanding results achieved by the Shelford girls and that in recent years, 100% of graduating girls have gained entry to their first preference tertiary Zena’scourse.time
• Victorian Association for Gifted and Talented Children – President/Life Member
• Reconciliation Victoria – Board
the School and prepared to share their talents. We have Itheexchangessomehadrobustoveryears,buthaveneverhad
Changes to our Board
During her time as a Board member at Shelford, Zena has been an active leader as both Chair and contributing member of the Finance, Governance, Nominations and Property and Assets
During her time on the Board, Zena has worked with two Principals and
Zena Helman has been a Director of the Shelford Board for 11 years with 10 years as Chair of the Board.
The Annual General Meeting of Shelford Girls’ Grammar was held on 26 April 2021. At this meeting, in line with Shelford’s constitutional requirements, Zena Helman, Chair of the Board retired after 11 years of service. We welcomed Pam Russell as the newly elected Chair of the Board.
When invited to join the Shelford Board Pam was delighted to accept, knowing the values of the School aligned with her own, particularly catering for the needs of the individual student.
We thank Zena for her significant contribution to Shelford over so many years and wish her all the best for the future.
A personal note from Zena
herself, Zena believes that the Shelford values she was immersed in as a student remain with her today and are foundational to both her professional career and personal life –including her substantial contribution to Shelford. Zena frequently states ‘as the School grows and responds to the needs of girls in the present and future, our Shelford values remain constant’.
Incoming chair: Pam Russell
Shelford produces personable and empowered young women with the skills needed to face a challenging and uncertain world. I am proud to have led the Board through the last 10 years. However, the real accolades belong to our two Principals over the last decade and more, who have been the driving forces behind the School’s growth and success. My thanks go to the Board members who are all volunteers and put in much hard work to shape the School. It has been a privilege to work with people who are committed to
Acommittees.Shelfordian
• Holmesglen Institute – Board Member, Higher Education Academic Committee
• Tournament of Minds – Victorian Director, National Director
Educators –Chair, Victorian Chapter
• Monash University, Education Faculty – Board Member
Shelford has a proud history over the last 123 years. I am very pleased to have played a small part in the School’s continuing success, and it is with some sadness that my time on the Board has come to an end. Thanks to the excellent work by successive Board members, our past Principal, Polly Flanagan, and our new Principal Katrina Brennan, the School is in great shape for the next stage.
Farewell to Zena Helman
any doubt over the Board’s commitment to maintaining the Shelford values and excellence in educating girls.
Shelford Board of Governors
Zena Helman
Pam has •membershipsaffiliationsPam’sofeffectivestrongBoardexperienceconsiderableasaChairandainterestinthegovernanceorganisations.professionalandBoardinclude:AustralianCollegeof
• The University of Melbourne – Honorary Fellow, Faculty of Education
leaving the Board, but I will stay connected to Shelford. The School helped shape the woman I am, and I look forward to helping produce the next generation of confident young women in any way I can.
Pam looks forward to getting to know more of the School community and working with them to continue to provide a holistic, challenging and empowering educational experience for the girls at Shelford.
on the Board has come to an end but she will not be leaving. Zena will be available to support the incoming Chair and will continue to support School events. Zena will always be a Shelfordian.
PamMemberwasVice-Principal, Learning and Teaching at Shelford from 1994–97 before establishing her own education consultancy. Her work included school reviewing for government, independent and international schools; developing and improving learning and teaching programs and policies; developing and delivering professional development programs; mentoring and/or coaching principals and senior administrative teams; developing staff appraisal programs; developing and auditing K–12 curriculum and developing middle school policies, administrative infrastructure and curriculum.
• Churchill Fellowships – Chair, Education Committee, Victoria
Many presentations at School for assemblies and wellbeing and some fun get togethers for families have occurred, such as the Mother’s Day Breakfast and the SPA welcome drinks (albeit on a delayed date). The opening of the SILC narrowly escaped the lockdown (by one hour!) and a number of reunions have been held.
‘Our vision for our school this year is to reinforce our school’s values such as integrity and passion, as well as respect and creativity.
‘Shelfordarts. has always fostered a strong sense of community, and we strive to support this even further, building and
Principal’s welcome
Katrina Brennan Principal
Ourextraordinary!studentshave faced every challenge with enthusiasm. They have not been deterred from following their passions and interests, even when online. They prioritise their learning and wellbeing and engage with our staff in a conscientious and caring way, in person or virtually. Our Year 12s have led by example and have truly appreciated being brought back during Term 2 to onsite learning and
‘As the school co-captains of Shelford Girls’ Grammar, we see 2021 as a year of connection and community, especially in light of the events of last year.
‘A primary goal is to reinstate student passion for learning as well as extracurricular activities the girls want to be a part of.
For the most part, 2021 has been marked by a return to onsite teaching and learning and the resumption of all of the opportunities for students that we so delight in sharing with families and each other. Our students in the Junior and Senior Schools have enjoyed the House Cross Country and Athletics carnivals, the Senior School House Swimming, GSV for most of the semester and SYDSA Cross Country (in which our Junior School placed SECOND!).
We have been able to run the Year 5–6 and Year 7 camps; debating competitions and the Year 9 Challenge weeks, City and Law. Year 10 and 11 examinations have gone ahead, as have most of our Energy Hub mornings for Junior School students and Junior and Senior School Chinese Clubs. Career Conversations have been onsite and virtual.
1
An edited excerpt from the Leader, 20 April 2021 6am, c462e3b858df74beac99e8f74a58b5d6share-hopes-for-2021/news-story/glen-eira-port-phillip-school-captains-com.au/leader/inner-south/bayside-https://www.heraldsun.
If nothing else, we have all learnt to ‘never say never’ and to understand that our School and its operations can be turned upside down in a very short period of time. What we have also learned is the strength of our amazing community, the real meaning of the ‘ties that bind’ and that young people are indeed
Ourassessments.staffhave pivoted in the most difficult of circumstances and become expert at reverting from remote learning, to face-toface teaching, literally with a day’s notice. We have welcomed new staff this year who have immensely enjoyed working with our wonderful students and talented staff, and we are very grateful to have such an amazing group of highly qualified, passionate educators and professional services staff, join our ranks.
A triumph was the production ‘Mary Poppins’ in the Senior School and our Autumn Music Concert. Just on the wrong side of the lockdown, our Junior School Performing Arts Showcase became, instead, a movie experience for families and we are hopeful that excerpts will form part of our Presentation Evening later in the year.
On 2021: Co-Captains Finn McLeish and Kaya Cho (pictured on cover)
‘Being back at school has been a reminder for us all of how important it is to be together in real life, with our peers. Most of all, we have come to appreciate the collegiality and supportive culture of our Shelford family.
Welcome to our Winter edition of Q magazine for 2021. This has been a year of contrasts for us; palpable excitement and positive energy about the return to normal, marked with some despair at the ‘snap’ three-day lockdown in Term 1 and resignation and resilience when the ‘circuit breaker’ extended lockdown was called during Term 2.
‘Weschool.endeavour to empower the students of Shelford and encourage them to use their voice and work hard to adhere to the school’s morals and values every day.’
Overwhelmingly, this year has been about being back together and working as a community to strengthen our School. We have a committee of parents working hard on our Shelford Parent’s Association (SPA); we have released Shelly, our Learning Management System, to parents, alongside a fortnightly Shelly newsletter; and we are launching our Strategic Plan in Term 3. Engaging with our community is vital, particularly as together we work our way through these unheralded times. Our students will remember this time in their lives forever; it is no doubt a challenge, but not an insurmountable one and one which we are overcoming together. The School tie does indeed bind us all as one.
‘Last year inhibited so many people from being involved in the things they love, and we envision that we can reestablish these passions by introducing more opportunities for a wide range of interests, such as sports and performing
strengthening relationships, contributing to the welfare of those in the community and the future development of the
Karen Ryan Director of Student Enrichment and Support
11 Coordinator Cath has been supporting the girls in their academic and wellbeing programs, and she is busy planning an end-of-year ‘Taste of Tertiary Conference’ to assist them in their Year 12 journey and future study.
2 QUAERITE | Winter 2021
Cath has some 29 years’ experience in education, having held various leadership roles, most recently at Mentone Girls’ Grammar. During this time, she researched, wrote and implemented a Student Wellbeing Program for Years 7–12 that formed part of their pastoral care Alwaysprogram.passionate about student wellbeing, Cath’s interest in Careers Counselling started when she was Head of Year 12, where she particularly enjoyed counselling the students and talking to them about their futures. She still delights in hearing past students talk about how much they love their job or university/ TAFE course she helped them select.
Tegan employs an open, relatable and authentic communication style to work in collaboration with individuals of all ages. She equates success with students realising their individual potential, and prides herself on her commitment to social and emotional learning within supportive learning environments in which students feel safe and secure to challenge themselves in their learning.
Cath Freney joined Shelford in February as our Careers and Future Pathways Coordinator. In Term 2 she took on the additional role of Year 11 Coordinator to cover a maternity leave vacancy.
Tegan worked for 7 years at Newhaven College, Phillip Island, where she taught a range of year levels, including Prep, 2, 4 and 5. Last year she worked as a Library and Digital Technologies Specialist Teacher, running DigiTech classes for junior students, facilitating Year 7 coding and programming classes, teaching library classes, and providing pastoral care for a Year 7 group. As a team-player, Tegan extended her contribution beyond the classroom setting through active involvement in the ICT and Learning Management System committees.
Working with Ms Sidaway, Mr Hall and Senior School Maths teachers, the Junior School Math Enrichment program is developing to incorporate Problem-Based Learning. A Member of the Boroondara Gifted and Talented Network, Karen is looking forward to offering challenge opportunities and programs to enrich students’ knowledge, skills and passions.
Tegan enjoys helping students develop a lifelong love of learning by applying a transdisciplinary and concept-based curriculum that promotes natural curiosity and encourages critical thinking. She enjoys building deep, sustained student relationships and providing young people with diligent and thoughtful pastoral care.
Cath Freney Careers and Future Pathways Coordinator, Year 11 Coordinator
Asplan.Year
Since arriving at Shelford Cath has focused on bringing together all the wonderful things that were happening in the Careers Department into a structured and expanded program. The new Career 4sight Program includes opportunities for the girls to identify skills, interests and passions, participate in work skill and experience programs, engage with potential employers and training providers and create their own pathway
At Shelford, Karen has developed and implemented whole-school student enrichment and support policies, programs, practices and documentation that support our School values and beliefs. She ensures students with individual needs are identified and teachers are using various differentiated teaching, learning and assessment strategies. In collaboration with teachers, parents and students, Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) have been enhanced and continue to be written. Staff development in effectively teaching students with individual language and learning needs across the spectrum is a priority. Developing teachers’ pedagogical understanding, currency and practice, curriculum planning skills and assessment knowledge and practices are key components of Karen’s role.
Tegan Humble Year 4 classroom teacher and Digital Technologies teacher for Years 7 and 8
Tegan Humble joined Shelford this year as one of our Year 4 classroom teachers, and as Digital Technologies (Digitech) teacher for Years 7 and 8.
Staff profiles
Karen Ryan joined Shelford in 2021 in the newly-created role of Director of Student Enrichment and Support. Passionate about supporting students with individual needs, Karen has degrees in Education, Mental Health, Special Educational Needs, TESOL and Educational Leadership & Administration. She was Head of Academic Support at Korowa Anglican Girls’ School and has held Senior Leadership roles in Student Support Services in Australia and internationally.
Originally completing a Business degree, Tegan worked in banking and finance before completing a Master of Primary Teaching at Melbourne University.
Jenni Thom
Frank XavierHallatHeadpreviously2021,atHeadShelfordjoinedastheofMusicthestartofhavingbeenofMusictheKostkacampusofCollege, as well as Director of Music at Mazenod College. Frank has also been a VCAA assessor for VCE Music Performance for several years. Brought up playing trumpet in brass and concerts bands as a young musician, Frank spent several years in the Australian Army Band Corp prior to his teaching career. Frank is passionate about encouraging students to take up learning an instrument and getting involved in Music.
Meet the Performing Arts team
1 and Unit 3 Drama
At the end of Term 1, debutedClub,YearestablishedKelseythe6Dancewhotheirfirst
Devised Ensemble Performance, ‘Lost & Found’ in June. Jason is looking forward to leading his first Senior School House Performing Arts festival at Shelford in July, ably supported by students and staff from across the four Houses. He also welcomes the opportunity to curate Shelford’s end of year Presentation Evening and begin planning for next year’s very first Senior School play, which he will direct.
Ruth Dixon-Lawrence
Another new member of our Performing Arts team, Jenni is excited to be taking on the challenge of teaching girls and enthusing them about music, after 22 years as Head of Junior School Music at Scotch College. Jenni’s speciality areas
3
believespassionatelysemester.aensembleswithenjoyedShephilosophy.educationhasalreadyassistinginstrumentalasflautistthisJenniinthepower
of singing to bring people together, and is working steadily to build relationships with students so they feel confident to be musicians.
Karla Nyhuis
the Drama and Music departments, teaching Junior Drama and Senior Music. As an instrumentalist (piano and cello), Karla regularly accompanies choirs and helps teach the Year 3–4 String Program. Karla’s teaching embodies the Kodaly music philosophy, encouraging the power of singing and developing a good ear. She believes the performing arts are an essential part of our education, allowing students to explore, experiment and express themselves in a confident manner.
Kelsey Holden
Ruth is a programthrivingourRuthShelfordStrings.isandspecialistandmusicexperiencedhighlyeducatorstrings(violinviola)andtheHeadofJoiningin2003,developedcurrentStringfromits
infancy, establishing the two string orchestras, along with various chamber ensembles. Under Ruth’s direction, the Senior String Orchestra has enjoyed consistently gaining Gold or Platinum Awards at the Victorian Schools Music Festival for over a decade, inspiring many students to pursue careers in Music. Ruth teaches violin and viola from beginning levels to VCE, classroom instrumental music in Years 3, 4, 7 and 8, and several ensembles across the School. Ruth is also a freelance performer and an experienced examiner with the Australian Music Examinations Board.
Martin Mackerras
Working at Shelford since 2006, Martin teaches clarinet, saxophone and helps run the ensembles and band program. He directs Inter Band (Years 7 and 8) as well as Jazz Ensemble (Years 9–12). Inventive in keeping the numbers up in the ensembles, Martin set up a program where students of other wood wind instruments can have a short lesson on saxophone each week allowing them to join the Jazz Ensemble. Starting the year with one saxophone we now have four! Martin says, ‘There is a real excitement in introducing them to new music, seeing their sense of confidence and pride in their work increase over time and best of all seeing them make new friends through music’.
After an abnormally quiet year of Music and Drama in 2020, this year has been a hive of Performing Arts activity. All ably led by our Performing Arts team, many of whom were new to Shelford this year.
work at the Junior School Performing Arts Showcase. She also enjoyed assisting with the Senior School Musical, ‘Mary Poppins’ and is excited about being
Kelsey was thrilled to join the Shelford staff this year and is teaching Year 7 and 8 Drama.
involved in future productions. Kelsey endeavours to create a safe, supportive environment in her classes where students can flourish.
Martin looks forward to taking the groups to the 2021 Victorian School Music Festival as well as involving them in school concerts, functions, and celebrations throughout this year and beyond.
Karla KarlaAtJuniorproduceddirectedchoralvastsheSchool,FirbankjoinedrecentlyusfromGrammarwheredirectedarangeofmusicandandseveralMusicals.Shelford,teachesacross
are choral music and the Kodaly music
Frank Blakiston, Head of Music
As directedIn‘MarySchoolthisoftakenJasonPerformingHeadnewlyShelford’sappointedofArts,hasalreadyontheroleProducerforyear’sSeniormusical,Poppins’.addition,heco-theVCEUnit
Jason Forrest, Head of Performing Arts
for special maps and other publications. Val treasured a thank-you letter from Buckingham Palace for her work on a special map task.
Val loved her art classes and was a very good tennis player. She carried these passions throughout her life. Val joined the Australian Woman’s Army Service at age 18. She served for three years at the Cartography facility established by the Australian Army Survey Regiment. Here, she became skilled in calligraphy, then used on maps. Later, she took a job with the Red Tulip Chocolate factory in Prahran. The company provided Val with an around the world travel ticket every year, to assist her with keeping up to date with developments in Europe and North DuringAmerica.a
From early December 2020, 1 Hood Crescent and the adjacent Food Studies rooms, have been a hive of activity; workers have been steadily moving in and out over this period, reimagining these spaces for use in 2021.
Val was clearly a woman who lived her life to the full and in her own way. Val died in 2016 and she left a very generous bequest to the School in her will. It is fitting that we honour her and her bequest by the naming of these rooms after Studentsher.
holiday in London after Red Tulip Chocolates had closed, Val joined the Geographic Society, where her calligraphy skills, learned in the Army, were used
Shelford Innovation and Learning Centre
4 QUAERITE | Winter 2021
Major projects
On her return to Australia, Val worked as an artist for the large architectural firm, Bates Smart and McCuthen. She prepared coloured prints from the architects’ line drawings to assist with presentations to potential customers.
The new facility is comprised of a practical area which can accommodate 24 students working individually and a multipurpose classroom that includes a demonstration bench as well. The kitchen is fitted out with state-of-the art appliances, where students have the opportunity to develop food preparation skills, explore a range of cooking methods, think about the presentation of food they prepare and can then share this food together in the multipurpose classroom. Developing these practical skills alongside our theory program will empower students with the knowledge and understanding to take control of their food choices and therefore, their health and future wellbeing.
It was with great excitement that the Shelford Innovation and Learning Centre (SILC) came into being; a space that houses a wonderful area for Year 12 students to study and socialise and meet and learn, and the Val Edwards Visual Art Therooms.
Food Studies rooms
have been using these rooms since the start of the year and they have now been completed with new furniture and landscaping, which links these spaces to the rest of the School, via a walkway to the Helenslea forecourt. The Art and Design rooms are light and bright studio spaces, with glass partitions and a professional studio feel. Students are enjoying these creative spaces and especially the beautiful bathroom
We needed to wait until Term 2 to gain access to the rebuilt Food Studies facilities, so it was with great excitement that we were able to welcome students into our new state of the art Food Studies facility. The staff and students had been watching the build progress over Term 1 and were anticipating the final outcome. No one was disappointed with such a functional, spacious and modern learning
Asarea.the
Val Edwards Visual Art rooms are named in honour of Val Edwards, an archetypal Shelfordian. Val sounds like she was the kind of woman we foster here at Shelford – creative, passionate, curious and an individual.
Born between the First and Second World War, Val graduated from Shelford in 1948 and had a lifelong association with the School. She was a member of the Shelford Vintage Old Girls’ group.
Thefacilities!Year 12 students are making the most of their space, which includes a kitchen, bathroom, common study and recreational spaces and meeting rooms; students gather during their after-school study sessions and at other times during the day between classes. Offices of the Year Level Coordinators and Careers and Future Pathways Coordinator, are also part of the precinct and allow for students to access support and care as required.
students started to see the finished rooms they couldn’t believe how professional they looked and felt that it was possibly even better than the MasterChef kitchen!
SILC official opening
5
Strong women leaders featured prominently in the official party further to Mayor Cr Margaret Esakoff and N’arweet Dr Carolyn Briggs AM, including Bishop Genieve Blackwell, Anglican Diocese of Melbourne (the first woman to be consecrated as a bishop in New South Wales and third in Australia); Pam Russell, Chair of Shelford’s Board of Governors; and Zena Helman, Immediate Past Chair of Shelford’s Board of Governors, and Shelford Principal, Katrina Brennan.
On Tuesday 25 May our newly refurbished Shelford Innovation and Learning Centre (SILC) was officially opened by the Glen Eira City Council Mayor, Cr Margaret Esakoff. N’arweet Dr Carolyn Briggs AM, Senior Elder of the Boonwurrung People of the Eastern Kulin Nations delivered the Welcome to Country. The SILC is home to our Year 12 students who use the space to gather and study, discuss and learn. The Centre also brings our senior girls together to focus on problem solving, critical and creative thinking, collaboration and communication – the innovation and entrepreneurial skills we view as so important for our students.
Pictured left to right: Pam Russell, N’arweet Dr Carolyn Briggs AM, Cr Margaret Esakoff, Bishop Genieve Blackwell, Zena Helman and Katrina Brennan.
Longer term, the PRG’s activities, readings, and projects will continue to reflect Shelford’s vision, purpose and values. We will contribute to the evolving Professional Learning Framework, a bespoke program unique to Shelford. There’s particular enthusiasm for bringing together teachers and professional services staff from different career stages and supporting members of our community undertaking further research and study.
6 QUAERITE | Winter 2021
motivation, and faith. Members of the PRG will be sharing their music;selectionsinclude:TheseasonDiscs’,‘DesertownIslandbasedtheirlivesteachers.listswilleightofabook;
Onward:
discussedAtthinking).pz.harvard.edu/projects/cultures-of-(https://ourinauguralmeetingon2March,wetheintroductionto
and a luxury that they view as fundamental to education.
connections, challenges, concepts and changes. For our second meeting, Jo Adlard, Grade 3 teacher, led a ‘ghost walk’ of spaces in the Junior School. A ‘ghost walk’ is a mostly-silent visit to an empty space where participants focus on physical environments. This was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our own classroom use. Our follow-up conversation followed a ‘See-ThinkWonder’ routine.
Professional Reading Group
Shelford’s new Professional Reading Group (PRG) was launched in Term 1 and has been greeted enthusiastically by staff from across the School. The PRG aims to contribute to learning and teaching innovation in our community while fostering professional relationships and collaboration. Our meetings are a welcoming space for a range of perspectives and experiences. Meeting twice per term, the group undertakes a variety of activities supported by routines suggested by Harvard Project Zero’s Cultures of Thinking. The Cultures of Thinking are defined by Project Zero as ‘places where a group’s collective as well as intellectual thinking is valued, visible, and actively promoted’
Staff news
We are delighted to share the news of the arrival of Year 9 Coordinator and Humanities Teacher, Jacinta Chambers’ first child. Francesca Quinn Chambers was born on 16 April. Frankie is doing well and her Mum and Dad are completely smitten.
Madeleine Coulombe Head of VCE English, Literature and EAL
Another beautiful firstborn baby girl in the Humanities Faculty arrived on 7 June. Congratulations to Una Alagic, on the arrival of baby Lola. Una, Matt and their fur babies are also completely in love with their baby girl.
Cultivating emotional resilience in educators by Elena Aguilar (Jossey–Bass 2018). Our conversation was supported by a thinking routine called ‘the 4Cs’ that asks participants to break their reactions to a reading into four categories:
This term, our group investigated some core values (Engagement, Independence, Understanding, and Thinking) that underpin our professional practice. We also read articles about Growth Mindset and considered how to foster positive thinking in our classrooms. We will continue our discussions about Cultures of Thinking and Growth Mindset in Term 3. To finish up the semester, we are taking a somewhat light-hearted approach to professional learning. Our ‘reading’ is an episode of the classic BBC radio show ‘Desert Island Discs’ featuring Dame Helena Morrissey – an inspiring listen for those interested in leadership, worklife balance, creative and intellectual
Humanities Faculty babies
Karen Whelan Deputy Principal – Staff and Operations
Happily ever after
Fostering a growth culture
On 8 January this year, Science Teacher Dr Simon Chau and his partner Vivien said their ‘happily ever afters’ at the Alfred Nicholas Gardens in the Dandenong Ranges, in front of 40 close family and friends. Originally scheduled for mid-December and foiled by COVID restrictions, the couple reimagined their wedding with help from family and friends, putting together the more intimate ceremony. We wish Simon and Vivien a long and happy life together!
Education can be an incredibly diverse and often individual job. At Shelford we are providing a space and structure for our staff to ask questions about their practice, reflect on their strengths and weaknesses, and safely step outside their comfort zones. Fostering a growth culture with collaboration and reflection at its centre will help us to provide better outcomes for our teachers and students.
about our teachers using and sharing their expertise so that both students and staff Johnbenefit.Hattie (2008) asserts that the most successful schools are the ones that continually seek to find evidence of their impact. Our teachers are currently developing their SMART goals for 2021. In writing these goals they have been asked to be Specific, determine how they will Measure their impact, ensure the goal is Achievable and Relevant to our theme, and that it can be achieved in the Timeframe set. Our staff will be using a reflection cycle to help them measure the impact of their chosen evidence-based practice. When reflecting individually and collaboratively teachers have been encouraged to think deeply about the need within their classrooms, the strategies they may use to measure their impact and how it is they will reflect and evaluate on their findings and refine their future practices.
7
Just like our students, the staff at Shelford are encouraged and supported to reflect upon their own learning and development. Through encouraging professional growth, we are able to achieve better outcomes for our teachers and students. This year’s professional learning theme is Reflection by CollaborationCollaboration.has been shown to be one of the best ways to develop teaching, learning and leading, and to grow both individual and organisational capacity (DragoSeverson & Blum-DeStefano, 2018). At Shelford we acknowledge and respect our teachers as experts in their own areas who have a variety and wealth of experience to offer. They often know where improvements need to be made and therefore it is important they are given the autonomy to choose which evidence-based practices are best applied in their own classrooms. Collaborative professional learning leads to a shared and collective responsibility and is
In the first week of May a team of student volunteers sorted and collated the generous toiletry donations made by our Shelford community. Twenty-five bags, full to the brim, were donated to St Kilda Mums for the #makeamothersday appeal. The Make a Mother’s Day appeal provides everyday essentials for a mum experiencing hardship, who might be at risk of homelessness, affected by violence, family breakdown, or living in poverty.
Make a Mother’s Day appeal
International Women’s Day (IWD)
International Women’s Day (8 March) was celebrated across Shelford, with speakers and activities. Our Year 12 leaders initiated an activity to get the whole school involved in forming the letters ‘IWD’ to photograph and share, showcasing their commitment to forging a gender equal world.
Youth ConferenceLeadership
Careers Conversation Series
8 QUAERITE | Winter 2021
A new initiative in Careers this year is the Careers Conversation Series where people working in various sectors share their pathway to their chosen career, what a typical day looks like, what their training involved, and what they love about their job. To date two events have been held. An in-person event (with parents participating remotely) in April with speakers from the Health industry, and a completely virtual event in June with speakers from the Design and Technology industry. The sessions are a great opportunity for our students to learn more about different careers, and provide clarification for some that their choice of career path was well suited to their interests and strengths.
News from around the School
We were honoured to have prominent Shelfordians celebrating IWD with us and speaking at assemblies. The Senior School keynote address was from Florence Potter (Class of 2014), environmentalist, feminist, and Community Engagement Manager at One Girl. Florence inspired the girls with her role helping One Girl to achieve their mission to break down the barriers girls face in accessing an education, currently with programs in Sierra Leone and Uganda. The Junior School keynote address was from Nicola McCormack (Class of 1993) who inspired the girls with her journey studying Science, becoming a physiotherapist and running her own business.
A group of Year 9, 10 and 11 students attended the Youth Leadership Academy Australia Conference on 27 April at the Melbourne City Conference Centre. They heard from several speakers who talked about their entrepreneurial adventures, and a terrific panel of young people straight out of secondary school who talked about balance, working out what you love and surrounding yourself with people who believe in you. Great insights to help prepare our girls for the future.
Anzac Day
Anzac Day was observed across Shelford. Our Year 2 students created beautiful poppies in Art. Our Year 6 students ran the Junior School assembly reciting ‘In Flanders Fields’ and trumpet teacher Laura Hertaeg played The Last Post. The Junior assembly had a special guest speaker, Mr Ian Palfrey, Sophie N’s grandfather. Ian served during the Vietnam war (1970–1971) in the Headquarters 1st Australian Task Force. He spoke about Anzac Day and what it means to him.
A special Anzac Service Assembly was held in the Senior School with guest speaker Peter Tippner, a former Squadron Leader with the Royal Australian Air Force. Peter completed 15 years of service in the RAAF, starting his career when he was only 17 years old in 2001. Through these 15 years, Peter was both an operational Fighter Pilot, and a qualified Test Pilot, flying over 30 aircraft types and logging thousands of flying hours both in Australia and overseas. At the end of the Senior assembly our Co-Captains laid a wreath commemorating those who have served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations and honouring the contribution and suffering of all those who have served.
Sisters Chloe and Ruby from Years 5 and 6, were recently nominated for a Bayside Youth Award which recognises young activists, advocates and achievers in the community. They attended the awards ceremony and were co-winners of the Community Award, for their efforts in bringing together the Bayside Community with their fundraising for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal. With the support of family, friends, local residents and businesses, Ruby and Chloe helped raise over $18,000 for the appeal. Congratulations girls on your amazing work!
9
Our Prep to Year 4 students enjoyed the annual National Simultaneous Storytime on 19 May, this time from space! The book Give me some space! by Philip Bunting was read by astronaut Dr Shannon Walker from the International Space Station. What an amazing intergalactic experience for our girls.
Bayside Youth Award winners
This year our new Digitech room has been open for Year 3–6 Makerspace lunchtime sessions. What started as a pop-up has become a regular weekly event and much-loved favourite. Students create with Lego, with items from the craft cupboard or tinkering with junior woodwork machines.
National StorytimeSimultaneous
Makerspace
SPA sponsored a Junior School Mother’s Day Stall, which involved the girls all selecting special gifts for their mums. The smiles on the girls’ faces made the effort worthwhile and we hope this gave our community a special surprise for Mother’s Day. We are thankful for the support from parents, in particular Ana and Tania who led this year’s initiative, supported by Maeve, Jocelyn, Zoe, Patrick, Cris and Vanitha in the preparation of gifts and at the stall.
SPA has certainly benefited from the passion of our parents and community. With lots of exciting initiatives ahead, we look forward to continuing to reconnect and strengthen our community throughout a successful 2021.
Our Mother’s Day Breakfast was a huge success – with over 110 attendees including our girls with their mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers or other special people. It was beautiful to see everyone celebrating together and our girls loved showing their school and friends to the morning’s special guests. This year SPA nominated the St Kilda Mums ‘Make a Mother’s Day’ appeal for donations of toiletries or money and there was overwhelming support received. Thank you to the mums who helped in the lead up and on the day including Nichola, Lisa, Jocelyn, Rosemary, Tania, Cris, Vanitha and Zoe.
Thank you to former SPA President Nikki Carrick and Vice-President John Buordolone for their leadership over previous years and support over this transition period.
Allsales.of
these activities were managed and supported by the many wonderful parent volunteers who sit on the SPA Committee or those volunteering for specific activities, and we are so thankful to have such a passionate community.
The Second-Hand Uniform Sale Committee has been working incredibly hard. After moving locations at the start of the year and setting up a permanent uniform space, the Committee has arranged multiple sales and supported the community in numerous ways including helping over 70 families to successfully sell their uniforms. Thank you to Tania, Cris and Vanitha for leading the Committee and for all the ongoing support from volunteers including Ana, Vanessa, Julie, Linda, Fiona, Sally and Petrie. Their collective efforts and dedication toward this ongoing community initiative have been vital.
Andy Langridge and Andrew Mott
The start of 2021 has seen significant change in SPA. Following the AGM in March, SPA has a great mix of new and existing parents all actively involved in the Committee and its initiatives.
After a false start with the February lockdown, the SPA Welcome Drinks took place on 26 March. It was a wonderful celebration of our community and enthusiastically attended. The night also publicly marked the change of Committee including the handover of SPA presidency from Nikki Carrick to Andy Langridge. We give a big thank you to Nikki for all she has done for Shelford over recent years.
Shelford Parents’ Association (SPA)
10 QUAERITE | Winter 2021
There is a particular emphasis this year upon friend-raising to help enrich the school community after the rigours of 2020. In 2021, SPA has hosted the SPA Welcome Drinks, a Junior School Mother’s Day Stall, a Mother’s Day Breakfast and a number of Secondhand Uniform Shop
A street rat who has to steal to then eat In Agrabah, where the heat is quite strong He helps a princess, but dressed to deceit Who tried to flee royal life for so long.
Instead of the villain with evil ways, The street rat now has the lamp in his care The genie grants him three wishes and Onelays wish to turn into a prince right there.
Rose Z, Year 2Maya V, Year 2
Aladdin
Tara C,
To impress the princess, free genie’s Littlehands,do they know, the villain’s dark plans. Year 9
Desire to survive never wavers, May the odds be ever in your favour.
Jinyu X, Year 2
Thanya V, Year 9
Prologue sonnets
Annabel P, Year 9 Food Studies
11
Student work
A sister obliged to hold a burden, From a plight used to harm the innocent, Where one sells their life for empty Forguerdon,agovernment with nasty intent.
Twenty-four chosen for twenty-three Adeaths.fightamongst children to escape end, In a game contrived with no lack of tests. Joint forces, yet only her to defend.
1984 By George Orwell
Although unexpected, she will advance, By assistance of friends and foe alike. With her future at the mercy of chance, Never knowing when disaster will strike.
The Hunger Games
After all of this he is locked away And ends up ordered to retrieve a lamp In a mysterious cave in which it lay Holds a powerful genie ready to stamp.
Camilla S, Year 9
Zoe K, Year 9
Inspired by Shakespeare’s opening Prologue to Romeo and Juliet, our Year 9 students created a sonnet telling the tale of one of their favourite books or films. Following are some highlights.
Winston Smith seems to be a normal man, Amongst Oceania he resides, One of three nations, with an evil plan, Where Big Brother is the one who Thedecides.language called Newspeak supresses Asthought,telescreens watch over everyone, Winston writes in the diary he just bought, Knowing of the thoughtcrime he has Thebegun.note from Julia spells out ‘I love you’, And so, the secret affair commences, The pair look into the brotherhood crew, But are framed and face the Heconsequences.istorturedby his ultimate fear, Once again, Big Brother will loudly cheer.
The music notes that only I could hear burned in my brain. My bike shuddered to a halt as I pressed hard on the brakes, branding a long rubber track. This house in front of me, was a familiar grey brick house that I used to call home. My eyes lit up like the early morning sun, recalling my past. I was jolted back to the present as the boys pushed the door open. The minute I walked in, I knew it had changed. Piano music was delicately hanging from the ceiling. Half-made instruments, their strings furled. Books of my childhood strewn across the room.
The same common enemy
Lucy M, Year 7
Jocelyn J, Year 5
Untitled
Sarah O, Year 7
A cool breeze swept across my hair. My arms tensed. Cars honked and swerved on the small roads below. My dirty blond hair danced in the wind, yet I felt motionless, numb, as if my feelings had been drained out of me. The past months had weakened me, but I had to stay strong for my children. The shiny glass reflected my pained expression. I stared at myself for a while, noticing minor details like my neatly trimmed eyebrows and my long nose. I noticed the scar on my forehead. It was long and now faded, but my memory of that eventful evening – the flash of that knife and the searing pain – was still fresh. My eyes looked sad and dark. Before I could stop it, a tear dribbled down my face. I had not cried yet. Not once since the funeral.
12 QUAERITE | Winter 2021
Student work
The little boy
Cakes made by 8A; decorations by Year 11 Food Studies
I awoke. The sky was as dark as a raven swooping in the middle of the night. I called. No one answered. The wind blew but didn’t echo. I knew but didn’t say. I saw two figures, one petite and doll like, while the other was herculean, with big wide shoulders. The lady held the hand of a slight toddler, around two or three. She let go of the toddler’s hand when the breeze was a light feather resting on the ground. A cloaked woman landed in front of them, her bell-shaped gown underneath unraveling as she landed. She spoke, her voice harsh but beautiful. ‘You, she whispered, have betrayed me.’ With a wave of her hand, the figures crumpled, their expressions peaceful as they laid. The cold-hearted woman’s action split my heart in two. I screamed in anguish, the toddler curious, unaware of what just happened.
The faint voice came back, the voice of the cloaked woman. ‘This is you, my child, abandoned by your parents. You went back in time.’
I came back to the present, gathering my courage, my strength, my kindheartedness together, as we all fight some kind of same common enemy in this world. We are in this together ... always.
Alice J, Year 9
I look sleepily at the ground. Sand and dust collect in my nose. Sounds of people trading fill my ears. The edges of the wall feel rough and hard. The sweat on my head is increasing as the temperature gets hotter. My red shorts are making my legs itchy. I look up at the kids playing across from me. They look like they are having a lot of fun with their soccer ball. ‘Pablo! Get the water!’ my Mum squawks. My feet pound heavily as I stand up and make my way to the lonely bucket. I grip the bucket in one hand. The water tap is only a fiveminute walk, however, there are normally 20 or more people waiting in line. So, I muster the urge to hurry. I squint my eyes as I try to view the water tap across the dusty field.
The boys were jumping on the aged couch, the memories searing my heart. The opal chandelier fell with a resounding crash. Silence descended. There was something up there. With my heart racing like a cat after its prey, I climbed up. My silhouette lit up the unearthed room. A tinkling music box, my father’s, was sitting there. ‘What is it that you want to show me?’ I murmured under my breath. I turned the lever, and Variations of Greensleeves started playing. The music box played, getting louder and louder ... until it took me away ...
Year 7 Creative writing
The music box in my dream was twirling out if my reach, taunting me. I gave a leap at it despite the sound ringing in my ears, opening, closing, opening, closing. My dream distorted, while other scenes began. The people that had left me walked in, their hollow eyes boring into me. My father, my mother, everyone who was close to me always disappeared, however desperately I held on. A faint voice echoed through the wall. ‘No one wanted you, no one loved you. Only you can find the people who left you.’
A child too fragile and vulnerable to be exposed to the terrors and prejudice on the cold streets of Venice.
Olivia K, Year 11
Too young to make her own decisions, hiding behind the ever present shadow of a proud father.
Who left.
Julia W, Year 7
Zzaj A-A, Year 10
A daughter with eyes of gold and with hair of fire.
As part of our study of The Merchant of Venice in Year 10 Literature, the students created an imaginative response to the play. Here is a poem that offers a unique and intimate perspective of Shylock and Jessica’s story.
The Merchant of Venice
The grey man then screams for his Adaughter.daughter whose name directly translates to riches,
Sitting in the warm dusk he clutches her Thepicture.warm oranges and pinks of the Italian sky mock his navy state of mind.
A young woman who was as priceless as the night is dark.
Frankie D, Year 10
Armin G-H, Year 8
Kylie C, Year 7
A young woman, but in his wrinkled irises forever a child.
He weeps as exact positions of birthmarks
and scars fade from his mind, snatched from behind his eyes like gold in an empty cobbled street.
Oh my daughter, Oh my ducats.
He screams for his wife, Loved by all and yet somehow loved by Belongingnone. to everyone, yet belonging to no Whoone.had nothing, who wanted everything.
The animalistic need for revenge boils his blood and burns his bone, Too much loss, too much pain.
13
The shops that lined the eastward side of the town had stickers all over them, advertising about Christmas sales, closing sales, all that rubbish, at this time of year. They were stylised stickers, decorated with painstakingly hand-drawn AND coloured images that made absolutely no sense, therefore leading people looking to floccinaucinihilipilificate about them. The shops themselves, however, were a different story. Large bricks placed to prop up the old bookshop. Unique balustrades outside the clothes shop’s windows.
A flock of sparrows chirped like a choir in harmony, their little legs perched delicately on a branch of the tree. The sun shone wanly, casting a pale shadow over the streets. White bellflowers littered the garden that was in the centre of town, giving the impression of fairies flying. Occasionally, when it was windy, the blossoms’ petals would scatter, turning the entire town into a paradise.
Victoria S, Year 11
The jealous wind crackled from the mountains, carrying with it the dreamy smell of burnt leaves. Autumn had come at last. The wilted leaves of last summer littered the streets, creating a blur of colour out of the whole vicinity. In the distance, a pine green tree waved its branches to bystanders. Neatly arranged along the sidewalk, the multicoloured flowers filled the musty air with a fragrance that made everyone’s hearts soar like birds. Through the maze of chaos, the stately chalet, tucked in between two curled trees, had an enchanting aura, like a witch’s hut. Though it was autumn, the air still tasted of summer, of icy poles and seaside parties. Children laughed, sharing tales of their holidays and pool parties. Painting. Saffron. Campfires. The things about autumn I liked most.
L–R: Gemma B, Hannah C, Camilla S, Annabel P, Year 9
Shanaya P, Year 7
Student work
The café’s glass doors that doubled as windows. All of which had been renovated to suit the autumnal theme. For once, I was looking forward to the autumn, up in the town of Bright.
The zephyr blew across my face as the amber leaves fell gracefully from the imposing canopy of trees which seemed as tall as skyscrapers. The majestic trees surrounded me as I saw a mixture of orange, gold, and saffron colored leaves with a tinge of green on the corners. Relaxed, I strolled on the blanket of the fiery colored leaves on the ground. Autumn leaves were like a blazing sun falling from the sky, which was as blue as a sapphire. Some trees were still green – green like a cat’s eyes, green like emeralds. As I closed my eyes, the smell of damp leaves filled my nose as the sun shone on my face. Slowly, I walked and admired the serene view around me. My shoes squelched with every step I took, and the luscious grass brushed against my ankles. Beside me, was a tranquil river and a dilapidated, stubby wooden pier connected to it. As I walked along, and gazed at the river, the flock of birds which were cawing as they swooped down, low across the river. Bending over, I saw the reflection of the stunning trees and myself. Swiftly, the cold, crystal clear water brushed against my hands as the water left wave ripples. The ducks swam around, and the parakeets were camouflaged in the branches of the tree. Foliage as golden as the sun, fell from the trees and glided onto the ground. A swarm of bees buzzing resonated in the air. The irregular wooden benches were longing for companionship. The warmth of the scene felt like a velvet blanket around me.
Autumn
These pieces were written in response to novel The Peacock Detectives and the setting of Autumn in Bright, Victoria.
Mia E, Year 11
Josephine J, Year 7
14 QUAERITE | Winter 2021
Alice A, Year 2
Jules Whitehead Head of Rowing
Quad Scull and Coxed Four events. Each of our crews produced their best performance of the season in the Finals in a stellar field of the best schoolgirl crews in the country, including a 2nd place in the C Final by our Quad Scull and Olivia Smyth posting her fastest race to secure a place in the C Final as well, ahead of eight other interstate scullers.
15
The 2021 HOSG, with three days of racing, saw nearly 2,200 athletes from
The Australian National Rowing Championships were held at Lake Barrington in Tasmania and Shelford contested the Open Single Scull, Coxed
Despite the restrictions imposed by the lockdown, Shelford’s Senior rowing squad commenced Strength and Conditioning training online towards the end of Term 2, amassing a significant number of kilometres on the ergo, and developing core strength and endurance. Shelford boasts one of the highest proportion of rowers in any school, with an average of one third of our student body electing to row each year. In 2021, Shelford boated crews in 13 divisions, including Sweep Fours, Quad Sculls, Double Sculls and Single NotwithstandingSculls.
The day was rounded out by our very young 1st Crew who stormed home from one of the outside lanes to finish 2nd in the B Final, securing a ranking within the Top 10 Schoolgirl Fours in the country, the second time Shelford had achieved this since entering the Nationals.
Rowing
the significance of simply being able to row on the water, Shelford’s performance across all levels of the program throughout the season was in itself outstanding and worthy of celebration. Shelford crews competed in a total of 12 regattas, including the HOSG, State and National Championships.
over 45 Victorian schools compete in nearly 500 events. Shelford crews collectively raced 52 times in every weather condition imaginable. Our crews and single scullers did themselves and the School proud, continuing to step up to the challenge in each event, regularly achieving results that belied their smaller size. Overall, most of our crews finished in the top half of their divisions. With many divisions running to eight Finals (A–H), our crews worked their way through Heats, Repechages, Quarter and Semi Finals before securing a berth in the Finals that took place today. We had wins at each level of the progression and finished with 4 B Finals, 3 C Finals, 2 D Finals as our highest results. Four of our five senior crews/scullers won their Finals and posted impressive times in doing so.
The pall of COVID-19 that arrived so swiftly in March 2020, and saw the cancellation of racing at last year’s Head of Schoolgirls’ (HOSG) Regatta, continued to overshadow rowing in Victoria, with all normal training cancelled and a city in lockdown. As Shelford entered its 18th year of rowing, many people had serious doubts as to whether the 2020–2021 rowing season would actually take place. With this context, the story of Shelford Rowing in 2021 is one of triumph in adversity, displaying all the elements that define our great sport and the spirit of the School.
Given the size of our school, the youth of the program and the quality of schoolgirl rowing in Victoria, Shelford has much to be excited about in the coming years.
9-year-old Champion: Holly H 10-year-old Champion: Lucy M 11-year-old Champion: Zara T 12-year-old Champion: Sofia D
Blundell pips Langley House at the post and takes the win at the Senior School House Swimming by the smallest of margins
Senior House Sport
A sunny day at Elsternwick Park saw every Junior School student participate for their beloved Houses – face paint and all! The students covered either a 1.5km or 2.5km course with big smiles and a sigh of relief at the finish line. Well done to Blundell House for taking the 2021 title!
Inaugural House Cross Country Champions: Langley House Langley House students were too quick on a multi-lap course around Elsternwick Park on 28 April. Sunny conditions and a wonderful atmosphere made for a great day of racing. Congratulations to our Cross Country team who demonstrated dedication and commitment, training twice a week leading into the GSV competitions. We hope the team can compete in the GSV Championships at Bundoora when restrictions ease.
9-year-old Champion: Holly H 10-year-old Champion: Milly W 11-year-old Champion: Olivia M 12-year-old Champion: Natalia D
Langley top of the table at Senior School House Athletics Shelford students brought colour and enthusiasm to Duncan Mackinnon Athletics Track on 26 May. The grandstand was bursting with excitement as students sprinted, jumped, threw and leaped for their precious House points. It was wonderful to see so many students trying new events!
Junior Champion (Y7 and 8): Lucy D Intermediate Champion (Y9 and 10): Thanya V Senior Champion (Y11 and 12): India F
Sport, Health and PE
The 2021 House Swimming and Diving Carnival on 16 March was one of the closest victories of all time. Our senior students were thrilled to be back at MSAC. Thomas and Lloyd were the loudest on the day, but the racing came down to half a point between Blundell and Langley. In the last relay of the day, Blundell managed to hold onto their title and take the trophy again! Well done to everyone who swam, dived and cheered.
Junior House Sport
Blundell 573 points, Langley 572.5, Lloyd 463.5 points and Thomas 387 points.
16 QUAERITE | Winter 2021
Thomas House victorious at Athletics If there was an award for best dressed, Lloyd would be Champions! Thomas managed to come out on top in 2021 with some impressive results in track and field. The most popular and exciting event was the Wheel Race with nearly every student participating. Congratulations to every student who competed, chanted and helped on the day.
Blundell House too fast at House Cross Country
Junior Champion (Y7 and 8): Lucy D Intermediate Champion (Y9 and 10): Molly R Senior Champion (Y11 and 12): Charlie G
Hub is a year-long club that runs on Friday morning. It comprises multiple programs that have a different focus, ranging from running and fitness, dance and movement, strength and conditioning to ball skills.
Our Junior tennis team shines at Melbourne Park
Having had a huge level of participation in the Run Club, we are excited to begin the next program, Dance Club!
Health and Physical Education
Shelford hosted the annual Girls’ Sport Victoria Breakfast on 11 February, attended by 23 member schools. The breakfast is an opportunity for School Sport Captains to network with other leaders and gain inspiration from Australia’s most successful sportswomen. This year we were lucky enough to hear from Open Mind Education’s Wellbeing Coach, Meg Durham.
GSV Sport
Congratulations to our Junior Tennis squad who qualified for Junior GSV Tennis Finals held at the prestigious Melbourne Park. The team competed incredibly well and managed to come away as Runners Up in the Junior A Grade Tournament. Congratulations to the team!
Shelford placed second overall out of seven schools! This success is a credit to the girls, and their determination to do their very best on the day. All of the Shelford girls ran incredibly well as individuals, but more importantly as a team, all finishing in the top half of their respective events.
17
GSV Swimming and Diving
Physical Wellbeing
Triathlon
The Health and Physical Education department are incredibly excited to be utilising Shelford’s brand new, fully equipped gym facility within the PE program. The Year 11 and 12 VCE PE classes have been using the gym to complete practicals based on theory components taught in the classroom to further enhance student learning. Fitness Units have also been embedded into the Year 8, 9 and 10 programs which gives the students an introduction to correct technique and different types of training to achieve various fitness goals.
Senior students have the opportunity to use this fantastic facility in their lunchtimes to work on their health and fitness goals.
Girls’ Sport Victoria Breakfast
This year, through the Physical Wellbeing program, we have introduced an exciting, new opportunity for Year 3–6 students to participate in a fun, social and inclusive environment whilst developing a range of skills and improving their health and Thewellbeing.Energy
The squad trained consistently for months leading into the GSV Prelims competition at MSAC and performed well against tough competition. Unsurprisingly, another outstanding result from our Junior diver Lucy D, who won not only the Prelims competition but also the GSV Championship. Giselle D broke numerous school records on her way to the Championship Event. Our Senior Medley Relay team; qualified as emergency for the Championship Evening. Congratulations to the entire squad!
A big squad of 22 dedicated students rose early for healthy competition at Altona Beach on Sunday 21 March and raced their way through a 300m swim, 10km bike ride and 2km run. Receiving specialised coaching from Triathlon Victoria at the pool, velodrome and the track certainly helped our team on race day. Congratulations to all who competed, many of whom are braced for an individual event in 2022!
SYDSA Cross Country
Autumn Concert
The Junior School Performing Arts Showcase highlighted the diversity but also the affinity of the choral, instrumental, drama and dance programs in which students from Prep to Year 6 have been involved this semester. The students were guided by staff expertise to produce performances involving best practice in each discipline, from learning to follow a conductor, to writing a script, to even playing an oboe! While staff and students were disappointed that we could not go live with the concert due to yet another lockdown, the Shelford community adhered to the old adage ‘the show must go on’ and suddenly we were making a movie! Whilst this was a different experience for us, the film will be a lifelong memento of a moment in history of keeping calm and carrying on in a pandemic. Well done, Junior School staff, students and families!
Scholars’ Concert
Performing Arts
Held at the start of Term 2, the Solo Concerts give students an opportunity to perform their solo works in a more formal setting. The concerts showcased our beginning students through to VCE, giving them all an opportunity to learn from and inspire each other. It was also impressive to see a wide range of instruments, from recorder through to double bass.
Junior School Showcase
The Scholars’ Concert has been an annual tradition for many years. Held in Term 1, Music Scholars from across the Junior and Senior School performed to an audience of staff, family and friends. As in previous years, there was also a staff item, this time being a brass trio. The evening was thoroughly enjoyable and a credit to the hard work of all performers.
18 QUAERITE | Winter 2021
The Autumn Concert was held on Tuesday 25 May and showcased the breadth of talent across the Shelford Music Program. Since the start of the year, students have been hard at work rehearsing and practicing for the evening, and this was obvious to all. Every group performed to an exceptional standard, it was also fantastic to see students involved in multiple groups across the evening with many rushing from one group to the next. The evening was a great success and truly a credit to our students and staff.
Instrumental and String Solo Concerts
Most especially, each performance following this magical matinee was well-attended and warmly received by the Shelford community, who relished the opportunity to experience live theatre again after almost a year. As such, the energy of all of the students involved was so great that it really did feel like our central character, Mary, could Indeed,fly.the
Thankfully, we were able to resume work on the production in January this year to the delight of the cast, its director, Anna Young and the School community. As such, the past four months have been punctuated by students attending numerous afterschool rehearsals, staff sourcing properties and costumes for the production and finally, adding the technical magic of lighting and sound to the show. All activities and everyone involved have helped to breathe new life into this family favourite. In so many ways, the cast have made each of these beloved characters their own.
roof and our hearts were lifted, in part symbolising the promise of a brighter, more hopeful path ahead.
A true testament to the production’s success was measured by the joyous reception it received during a very special matinee performance to the Prep–Year 6 students. The young students were simply in awe of the performance, often joining the cast in their renditions of ‘A Spoonful of Sugar’, ‘Step in Time’ and ‘Practically Perfect’. It was a truly gorgeous moment for the cast and audience.
Work on the musical first began late 2019 with the view to it being presented this time last year. Sadly, the production and the world found itself placed on hold as we faced a very different reality.
19
Mary Poppins
To quote everyone’s favourite nanny: ‘Sally forth the way we’re steering, obstacles start disappearing go and chase your dreams you won’t regret it. Anything can happen if you let it.’
20 QUAERITE | Winter 2021
Year 9 Challenge
City Week student reflection
Palace B
Law Week student reflection
During our week in the city we studied growth, connection and many other aspects of the city through exploring and visiting many interesting places. We not only grew our knowledge and understanding, but also used independence to find our way through the city and make decisions. We were put in small groups and we went around the city to learn more about it and investigated different aspects of the City of Melbourne that were part of the council plans from Some2017–2021.ofthe aspects we investigated more about were a city that cares for its environment, a city for people, a creative city, a prosperous city, a knowledgeable city and a connected city. One of the best parts of the City Challenge Week was getting to know other people in our year level and also connecting with the public. Overall, we learnt many new things about our city and gained more independence.
I liked going to the City to see the Old Melbourne Gaol, seeing all of the old cells and going to the Magistrates Court to replay a case about sexting online. I also liked learning about old crime stories that took place all over the city, and talking about how they didn’t or did get away with the crimes. Overall it was a fun and very informative experience. I also liked the presenters who came into the School to speak about the law, crime and human rights in Australia.
The City Week Challenge took place in the last week of Term 1, with students making their own way into the City to complete a range of tasks and challenges including an inquiry project that evaluated the Melbourne City Council’s goals. The interdisciplinary focus encouraged the use of skills across many disciplines, including Humanities, English and Science. In groups, students selected tasks to complete and designed some of their days so as to make efficient use of their time, tying in task requirements, transport, lunch and even a little down time to enjoy the city Coincidingexperience.withVictorian Law Week, the second Challenge week for the year, Law Week, provided students with the opportunity to explore, learn and discuss issues of law and justice. Students learnt and applied legal problem-solving skills in a case sentencing workshop and participated in a number of simulations where they took on the role of a judge. Students were also introduced to the role of the United Nations and, to conclude the week, took part in a two-day model UN workshop run by UN Youth Australia.
The Year 9 City and Law Weeks offer a dynamic and memorable learning experience for our Year 9 students and form part of the broader Year 9 Challenge Program comprising seven themed weeks. This unique program encourages greater responsibility for independent learning and reflection, team work strategies, use of technology, and promotes an increased awareness of diversity within our community.
Akira L
Year 7 camp – Camp Marysville
an incredible start to our secondary schooling.’
On the first night we went for a walk in the bush with our torches. It was an adventure because we looked at the stars, they
‘Camp this year was super fun! Camp was a really great opportunity to bond with our friends and get to know the girls who were new to Shelford much better. Some of my favourite activities were canoeing and rock-climbing. I learnt multiple new skills including tying knots, paddling a canoe in tandem and making wood-fired pizzas. The activities offered me many new experiences I have never tried before. The disco was a wonderful bonding experience for everyone. Camp is certainly one of the highlights of my year so far.’
Riva W
Camps
Years 5 and 6 camp – Anglesea Valley Lodge
Report by Coco A and Daisy M – Year 6
At the end of Term 1, the Year 5 and 6 students went on camp to Anglesea Valley Lodge. It was a great opportunity for all the students to bond and connect. We made new friends and created stronger connections with each other. The teachers were all so kind, caring and patient. On the final morning they even held a surprise Easter egg hunt! There were a range of amazing activities at camp and we had lots of experiences we’ll remember forever.
Year 7 students participated in the muchanticipated Year 7 camp, for two nights at the end of Term 1. This camp was an important part of the Year 7 student transition to secondary school and offered opportunities to form new friendships and positive relationships across the year level. Students participated in a range of adventure and other activities which offered rich experiential learning to develop teamwork, resilience and responsibility in a safe environment. Students canoed, cycled, bush walked, tackled a rock-climbing wall, and enjoyed other activities while at camp. The Year 10 Peer Support Leaders accompanied the Year 7 students on the camp, joining in each activity and hosting the camp disco. ‘Year 7 Camp was an amazing experience! I made so many new friends and learnt a lot about the teachers, like Mr Hill is really good at Gaga Ball! The Year 7 disco was the most enjoyable activity on camp. The Year 10 Peer Support Leaders hosted a disco with the theme of the ‘Oscars’. We all had a great time dancing and singing (yelling) with our friends. The camp was
Scarlett C
21
were beautiful! We saw kangaroos in the wild at sunrise and sunset each day. They were so cute as they hopped through the grass and across the field. Mountain Biking was a real highlight! We learnt to do tricks and how to go over big logs. We had to go around a bunch of puddles but sometimes we rode through them! The beach day was fantastic. We had amazing weather and played games on the sand. We also learnt some body boarding techniques and canoed on the Anglesea River. Overall camp was a blast! We are sure that it was an experience that all Year 5 and 6 students will remember for a long time to come.
As Shelford concluded its 42nd year, the 1940 Annual Report detailed many familiar events and achievements of the School; excellent academic results, House sports champions and community engagement. The winner of the Senior Tennis Tournament was Thomas, with Langley winning the Junior Tournament. Athletics and Swimming were also won by Langley, gaining them the House Cup for the However,year.
Shelford history
The Magazine Committee of 1941 comprised of: Judith Bierworth, Joyce Strickland, Kathleen Cocks, Vivienne Ballantine, Joan Prinnett, Margory Westmore, Annette Chamberlin, Shirley Huntsman, Gwynneth Weeks, Biddy Sewell, Elizabeth Penwarden, Jeanette Ravenscroft, Prudence Hepworth and Helene Burmiester.
22 QUAERITE | Winter 2021
with the escalation of the Second World War, the latter half of the Report notes that ‘the outlook for schools is not considered bright’. A lack of funding and the ‘chaotic conditions of the world’ meant that closure was a very real threat for Shelford, and many other schools in the state. Simple resources such as desks were scarce, and girls’ education was not valued in society as it is today. These circumstances also meant that there was no School Magazine from 1942–1944.
The Shelford 1940 Annual Report and 1941 Magazine Editorial show just how far the School has come, and the many challenges it has faced over the past 80 years. As we continue to work through a global pandemic which has changed the face of learning, we can reflect on how other historic events presented hurdles to education, and threatened to see the closure of Shelford entirely.
Nonetheless, Shelford was determined to continue serving its students and striving for academic excellence. We relied on the generosity of past students and donors, as well as the passion and ingenuity of our staff and students. Now in Shelford’s 123rd year, we can be grateful that this vision has withstood decades of change. As we continue to adapt to new circumstances such as remote learning and social distancing, Shelford’s sense of community prevails. To celebrate and document these everyday achievements, we have recently launched a fortnightly Shelly Newsletter available online ( newsshelford.vic.edu.au/our-community/ ).
Shelfordian support
WeTelephonejcoffey@shelford.vic.edu.au95247467arealsoalwaysinterestedinreceiving
Eva Lasky (nee Sleep, 2004) gave birth to Theodore.
Georgie Amott (2004) gave birth to Eden.
Elise Rose (nee Flanagan-Woods, 1999) gave birth to Zali Jacqueline.
Vale: Stirlene Louise Griffith (nee Eshelby) (1965)
She is now at peace in her beloved garden.
Stirlene and Phillip had three children and six Stirlenegrandchildren.andherfamily lived in Tennessee, USA before coming back to Australia and spending the last few years of her life in the bush near Mudgee in NSW, where she was happiest.
Oli’s family intends on travelling to America in order to access the treatment he needs. A fundraising drive, to which many Shelfordians have contributed, has raised over $65,000.
Snippets
Marriage
Following school, Stirlene (1965) married Phillip and lived on a farm in Carrum Downs, before moving to Sydney and learning to drive.
With her family, Jan enjoyed travels across New Zealand, USA, Bahamas, Canada, Austria, Switzerland, France, Italy, England and Scotland.
Births
If you would like to support Leni and her family, please visit Oli’s Journey on Facebook or Instagram. Creating awareness about Neuroblastoma is important to Oli’s family and will help to improve the outcomes of other children affected by this disease.
Current and past Shelfordians continue to demonstrate their generosity and kindness through difficult times. In particular, the class of 2003 has banded together to support classmate Leni Cara whose son Oli (3 years old) was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in 2020.
In 1975, Jan and the family moved to Brisbane, where she maintained a love of golf. In 1987, Jan and Les purchased two Pawnbrokers. Jan’s greatest joy was attending the monthly pawnbrokers’ auctions at Woolloongabba.
To Jan, family was paramount. Jan and Les were happily married for 57 years and have been blessed with a wonderful extended family, friends and lifestyle. Jan was an active member of the Shelfordian community in Brisbane, fondly enjoying the social gatherings.
Shelfordian news
Janice attended Shelford Girls’ Grammar, completing her leaving certificate in 1957. As well as being a Vice Captain, she was Blundell House Sports Captain the same year. Janice was an outstanding tennis and softball player, passionate golfer and loved sport, to play or to spectate. Janice also loved music and became a competent pianist, subsequently attending the Conservatorium of Music in InMelbourne.1960she began courting Les and they shared many interests. He recalls her as warm-hearted, loving and fun to be with. The courting involved a lot of golf, movies in the city, and caramel nut sundaes at OnHillier’s.avery wet 22 February 1964, Jan married Les at her School’s church, St Mary’s in Caulfield. They had two children Tracey (1967) and Mark (1970–2009), and six grandchildren.
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
Neuroblastoma is a form of cancer which grows in nerve cells and often affects young children. At just three years old, Oli is facing a long road of treatment ahead including radiotherapy and immunotherapy. Despite receiving the best care at the Royal Children’s Hospital in the Children’s Cancer Ward, some of the treatment that will give Oli the best chance of recovering and avoiding relapse is not currently available in Australia.
She loved her garden and her tapestry. Her family fondly remember Stirlene trying to keep the sheep from eating her flowers; no matter where she tethered them, they always seemed to be able to reach. There was always a tapestry frame in progress, with her latest pieces covering her walls.
23 October 1940–21 March 2021
donations to our archive collection.
Janice (1957) was born in South Australia before moving with her family to Melbourne in 1948.
Aged 70, Stirlene passed on 19 Feb 2021
Vale: Janice (Jan) Ambor (nee Phillips) (1957)
Madeline Davey (1998) gave birth to Walter.
Congratulations to Kate Freeland (nee Reis, 2010) who married in April.
23
With the pandemic impacting holding reunions last year, we are hosting ‘double’ reunions this year! To date, reunions have been held for the Classes of 1970, 1971, 1980, 1981, 2010, 2011, 2015, 2016.
24 QUAERITE | Winter 2021
Reunions
25 Reunions 2021 • Friday 16 July: Classes of 1990 and 1991 (30 years) and Classes of 2000 and 2001 (20 years) • Friday 30 July: Nepean Branch Lunch • Friday 8 October: Class of 2020 (1 year) and Class of 2021 (2 years) • Tuesday 26 October: Vintage Old Girls
One community. Countless opportunities.
