Term 3, Week 9, 2024 Unstoppable Journey - A Century of Inspiration 12 Sept 2024

Learning and Wrapping Up Another Term – Holidays and Year 12 Practice Exams
As the term draws to a close, it is a time for both reflection and preparation. Our students have demonstrated resilience and curiosity in their learning, making great strides in both academic and co-curricular pursuits. The end of term is always a period of transition, where students pause to rest and prepare for the next steps. For our Year 12 students, the holidays mark a critical time as they engage in practice exams, honing their skills for the upcoming VCE Examinations. This is a time for focused preparation, self-discipline, and commitment, all key components of the learning journey that will guide them to success.

While the rest of the School enjoys a well-deserved break, we want our students to know that we value their wholebeing. We encourage them to embrace a balance between rest and reflection. Whether through reading, exploring creative interests, or engaging with family, holidays are an essential part of nurturing both mind and spirit, preparing each individual to return to School with renewed energy and a fresh perspective.

Sport has always been a cornerstone of our School’s co-curricular program, and this term’s Saturday Netball Presentation Evening was a joyous occasion to celebrate the achievements of our athletes. I was deeply inspired by the dedication and hard work of our netballers, and I greatly appreciated attending the finals matches and meeting those devoted parents on the sidelines who proudly cheered their teams on and were impressed by how much improvement was in evidence. We are eagerly looking forward to the Celebration of Sport evening on Tuesday, 15 October in Featherstone Hall. It's going to be a night filled with excitement and celebration of our students' sporting achievements.

This year’s Envision Marketplace embodied the spirit of innovation and enterprise central to our School and Year 9 program. Students presented their wares, offering a wide range of products that reflected creativity and a keen understanding of market dynamics. The stalls were a vibrant mix of ingenuity and customer temptation.

Our Old Strathconians’ Association (OSA) reunions have been a vital part of our centenary celebrations, providing a platform for alumni to reconnect and share their experiences since leaving School. Most recently, the classes of 1984, 1989, 1994, and 1999 came together at Tay Creggan to stroll down memory lane. These gatherings serve as a powerful reminder of the lifelong bond our students form with the School and each other.

As we continue to build on these connections, we are inspired by the remarkable achievements of our alumni, whose careers and contributions reflect the values instilled during their time here. This week, we welcomed Kaiva Kaimins and Katie Dean from the Class of 2013 to share their entrepreneurial journey and global adventures as part of our Learning Legacy program.

Deaf Awareness Week – Assembly
Our assembly to celebrate Deaf Awareness Week was an important reminder of the strength that comes from understanding and inclusivity. We came together as a community to highlight the unique experiences of our Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) students and staff, ensuring that their voices are heard and valued. The assembly featured insightful presentations and panel discussions, reinforcing the message that every member of our School has a unique contribution to make and approaches life from a different perspective.

This event aligns with our mission to foster an environment of respect and belonging, where students feel empowered to express themselves and pursue their passions, regardless of any challenges and opportunities they may face. It was a powerful moment that reflected the spirit of our centenary celebrations – unity through diversity.

SFA Father’s Day Breakfast
Despite the stormy and blustery conditions, nothing could dampen the spirits of our dads and SFA committee members at this year’s Father’s Day Breakfast. The event was a heartwarming occasion that brought together fathers, father figures, and students, reinforcing the importance of family within our School community. It was a fantastic opportunity for connection as fathers shared in laughter—complete with some classic Dad jokes—and celebrated the vital role they play in supporting their daughters’ educational and life journeys.

The morning was a powerful reminder of the strength of having a supportive network at home and within the School. Strong male role models are crucial in shaping the confidence and resilience of young women, and the bonds formed between fathers extend beyond the good times to help navigate life’s inevitable challenges—the curved balls and eggshells that occasionally come our way. As our fathers got to know one another better, they reinforced the camaraderie that strengthens our community, ensuring that they are there for their daughters and each other.

Bravo! Centenary Music Concert
The Centenary Annual Music Concert was a magnificent celebration of the remarkable musical talent within the Strathcona community. This year’s concert, held during our centenary, showcased not only the musical abilities of our students but also the profound impact that music has on our lives, culture, and education. Music is more than a co-curricular activity; it is a universal language connecting people across time, cultures, and generations. It speaks to the soul, conveying emotions that words cannot always express and reminding us of the deep ties we share as a community. As the evening unfolded, it became clear that music, in all its forms, has played a central role in shaping Strathcona’s legacy.

Scientific research continues to unveil music’s influence on brain function, improving memory, creativity, and cognitive skills. The neurological benefits of engaging with music are vast, but its power goes beyond science. At Strathcona, music nourishes empathy, resilience, and community. Our students from Grade 2 to Year 12 embody this spirit, committing countless hours to perfect their performances and collaborating with one another. One of the evening’s highlights was an original composition by alumna, Victoria Wood titled "By the Maple Tree." This piece, symbolising strength and endurance, echoed the significance of the maple tree in our Senior School courtyard, where students have gathered for generations, offering friendship and support. As we give thanks for the music, we look ahead with confidence that the arts will continue to flourish at Strathcona, inspiring future generations.

Centenary Art Show - Flight: A Celebration of Creativity and Innovation
The Centenary Art Show was a stunning exhibition of creativity and innovation, showcasing the artistic talents of our students across all year levels. The theme, Flight, symbolised the freedom to imagine, explore, and create without limits. Each piece reflected the individuality and vision of our students as they explored new mediums, techniques, and ideas. In an ever-changing world, the skills honed through artistic expression will continue to serve our students as they embark on their unstoppable journeys. This exhibition reminded us of the deep connections that art fosters within our community and its enduring role in shaping Strathcona’s rich history.

Rest, Recharge, and enjoy the holidays!
As we near the close of this productive term, it's important to remember the value of not just switching off but genuinely taking the time to recharge. In the spirit of our School motto, Fortiter, Fideliter, Feliciter—bravely, faithfully, and happily—I encourage everyone in our Strathcona community to embrace the holidays as a moment to restore both body and mind. Taking this time to rest and reflect is essential for maintaining strength and balance, ensuring that we return with the courage to face new challenges, the commitment to reach our goals, and the joy of a well-rounded and fulfilling life.

When we come back for Term 4, refreshed and reinvigorated, we do so with the strength (fortiter) to approach our studies and activities with renewed purpose, the faithfulness (fideliter) to uphold our commitments, and the happiness (feliciter) that comes from being part of a vibrant and supportive community. The final term is always a time of opportunity and growth, and by embracing the break to recharge, we will be ready to take on all that Term 4 has to offer with enthusiasm, courage, and joy. I wish everyone a restful holiday and look forward to your return energised and prepared for the exciting term ahead.

Lorna Beegan
Principal

In the Junior School, students have been immersing themselves in their inquiry projects, embodying Albert Einstein’s belief that “The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.” From exploring the wonders of nature to experimenting in science labs in Grade 5 and 6, our youngest learners are building the foundation of lifelong learning.

Years 7 and 8 students have had a term full of immersion, not only in their academic pursuits but also in a variety of co-curricular activities. From competing in many co-curricular opportunities such as eSports, STEAM club, participating in arts clubs, to taking part in the Aladdin production and GSV sports, they are developing a well-rounded approach to learning while managing new content across their subjects.

Our Year 9 students have embraced their Envision Entrepreneurial business projects, showcasing their innovation and creativity. Alongside these projects, they’ve been deeply involved in Drama, Art, and Digital Technology projects, as well as gaining real-world skills through Envision excursions and hands-on learning. They are not just absorbing information—they are applying critical thinking, resilience, and collaboration, preparing themselves for a future where, as Dr. Seuss reminds us, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”

Senior School students have been expanding their knowledge across subjects, facing the challenges of assessments and striving towards their learning outcomes with determination. Year 10 students have been further immersed in their future pathways, while Year 12 students, in particular, are finalising their educational journey as they prepare for their trial exams and the upcoming end-of-year exams. Their commitment to excellence is inspiring, reminding us of Nelson Mandela’s words: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Our Centenary Music Concert and Art Show were powerful reminders of our school’s commitment to nurturing talent and celebrating the arts. The Centenary Music Concert showcased the incredible dedication of our students and staff, while the Art Show highlighted the creativity and expressive talents that thrive within our school walls across both the Junior and Senior school.

As we reflect on a century of learning, we are inspired to continue fostering an environment where each student can flourish. Together, we are unstoppable.

Kara Baxter
Dean of Teaching and Learning

Student Leadership Assembly - School Leaders of 2024
On Wednesday, 11 September, we gathered as a school to celebrate the final Student Leadership Assembly for the year. This significant event marked the culmination of our 2024 student leaders' journey, where we recognised and celebrated their leadership and achievements across various portfolios.

Throughout the year, these remarkable individuals have demonstrated not only leadership and passion but also resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to their peers and the broader school community. They have inspired us with their innovative ideas, fostered a culture of inclusivity, and led with empathy and integrity.

As we reflect on their contributions, we extend our heartfelt thanks to each of them for their unwavering dedication. Their legacy will undoubtedly inspire future leaders to follow in their footsteps.

Congratulations School Leaders 2025
I am pleased to announce our School leadership appointments for 2025. After a thorough selection process, a group of outstanding Year 11 students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, dedication, and a strong commitment to the values of our school have been appointed to lead their portfolio through 2024-2025.

These students have consistently shown integrity, empathy, and the ability to inspire their peers. Their passion for fostering a positive and inclusive school environment has made them exemplary role models, and I am confident that they will continue to lead with the same enthusiasm and dedication over the coming year.

The newly appointed leaders will officially begin their roles in Term 4, allowing for a smooth transition and an opportunity to start their leadership journey with the support of our current Year 12 leaders.

We will formally induct our 2025 Year 12 leaders at a celebration assembly on Wednesday, 23rd October, at 11.45 am; parents will be invited to join. This ceremony will be a momentous occasion, marking the beginning of their leadership tenure and setting the tone for the year ahead.

On behalf of the entire School community, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to the new leaders. We wish them all the best as they take on this important responsibility, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make in our school community.

Please click here to see our new School Leaders! 

Colours Awards
We also congratulate the following students in Year 12 who have been awarded Half or Full Colours for Term 3 and 4 for their commitment to the Co-curricular Sport, Music, Drama and House program at Strathcona over their 6 years.

Dilara Al-Sabbagh
Naomi Attalla
Maya Beechey
Bridie Broughton
Frances Chan
Eleanor Clayton
Jemima Collings
Sophie Cumberlidge
Isabella Donovan
Kristin Dunphy
Hannah Geary
Belle Gemmell
Heidi Gillon
Julia Glenn
Olivia Graham
Lucy Gration
Jasmine Harvey
Ella Holzer
Madison Howell
Holly Humphries
Scarlett Jolly
Esther Jung
Gemma Kellock
Izzy King
Cherie Katsoulis
Sarah Le Get
Holly Lewis
Katherine Ma
Alec Marsland
Olivia McInnes
Sophie McIntosh
Caitlin Nitschke
Charlotte Noonan
Sophie Norman
Charlotte Pearse
Mariah Pezos
Emma Prest
Marnie Sarkin
Cynthia Shi
Hannah Taylor
Rachel Zhou

Megan Boyd
Dean of Students

These career industry talks inspired students through providing insights into careers in IT and Civil Engineering. This included the benefits of international travel, innovation, emerging technologies and the importance of continuous learning.

We will continue to expose our students to various pathways beyond school in Term 4 and beyond, ensuring that they have a range of options to consider. Whether they pursue further education, vocational training, or enter the workforce, our aim is to help each student identify and follow a path that aligns with their strengths and aspirations.

For our Year 12 students, our Learning Legacy program has been instrumental in guiding our Year 12 students throughout their final full term. As we approach their final exams, we have revisited essential strategies and techniques that have been embedded over the past 18 months. This includes effective use of retrieval and practice exams and managing their time. Students have been reminded of how to schedule their study time and energy in the remaining weeks, ensuring they approach their revision with intention and clarity.

Keira Wills
Dean of Learning Futures

I certainly feel it is a privilege to lead such a wonderful school with a caring community, but the most joy is found in the daily interactions with your children and having the opportunity to watch them thrive and grow. Their extraordinary talents have certainly been on display this term – whether it is on the sporting field, the music stage, in the art gallery, during classroom activities or in the playground by being an awesome friend. I thank you for trusting us with the education of your remarkable daughters.

Of course, none of this would be possible without our exceptional team of teachers in the Junior School who continuously go above and beyond to create the most incredible learning environment in our school. I am always grateful for their expertise and unwavering care.

I hope that you all have a wonderful break and please take care.

Lisa Miller
Head of Junior School

Last week was a particular highlight as we witnessed one of the most anticipated events of the year, the 2024 Envision Marketplace! Over 35 student-led businesses took centre-stage in the gym at the Senior School. Later that same evening, Tay Creggan was transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity, innovation, and enterprise as we opened our door to friends and family. Students, who had spent the term brainstorming, planning, and building their businesses, finally saw their ideas come to life. From face painting and artisanal crafts (my decorated fan is hanging in my office), to food and drink items, our Year 9s showcased a diverse range of talents and ideas. The marketplace was buzzing with excitement as students shared their entrepreneurial visions with friends, staff, and families. It was more than just a display of a business – these events are also a celebration of hard work, teamwork, and the ability to overcome challenges. No small feat!

The night before our students embarked their entrepreneurial endeavours, a number of our wonderful Year 9 cohort sung and performed at the Centenary Music Concert. Each performance, from classical pieces to contemporary compositions, was delivered with poise and passion. I was in awe – something truly magical about the depth of talent within our school and the way in which music connects us.

Our students’ dedication and resilience have also been on display in the sporting arena. This term, we have seen our athletes excel in the GSV finals, particularly in athletics and volleyball. Once again, we as a TC staff, are inspired by the students' commitment to their teams and personal bests in a range of sports this year (including kayaking and rowing). The pride they take in representing Strathcona is exemplary, and we at TC couldn’t be more thankful to the sports department for making sure our Year 9 students have every opportunity to excel in their chosen sports.

As the term draws to a close, we are reminded that the students' time at Tay Creggan is coming to an end. The Year 9 experience, unique to our campus, has provided them with opportunities for personal, academic, and creative growth that will stay with them long after they move back to the Senior School. The friendships they have formed, the challenges they have faced, and the lessons they have learned have shaped them into more confident, resilient young adults. At the beginning of the year, I asked our students to “Take Charge and be unstoppable”. They certainly have taken this to heart, and they make each day a joyful one. I couldn’t be more thankful than to be in my position as Head of Tay Creggan with this amazing group of young people and beautiful staff.

This centenary year has been a poignant reminder of the rich history of our school, but also of the bright future that lies ahead. All of us - staff, students and parents, are part of this rich tapestry of Tay Creggan for 2024. And as our Year 9s prepare to embark on the next chapter of their education, they can be immensely proud of the way they have been ready to take on whatever challenges and opportunities come their way. Their journey, like the century of inspiration we celebrate, is unstoppable, and we look forward to seeing all that they will continue to achieve in their final term and beyond.

Jen Buchanan
Head of Tay Creggan

Term 3 GSV sports on offer were soccer, badminton and volleyball. The level of participation was a highlight, with volleyball registering 133 students across the three divisions. Our Captain, Lucy Gration said “The volleyball girls all had an amazing season this year!! From some of the juniors giving it a go as a fresh sport for them, to the Year 12 girls giving their last full term of GSV sport a good crack. The results are definitely ones to be proud of. Across all squads amazing leadership, participation and collaboration was displayed, leading various teams to winning multiple games, ultimately taking some of the girls to finals. Regardless of results, we all had a fantastic season and hope to see many girls return next year!!”

GSV Badminton was also a popular choice with 89 students signing up to play and another handful as training only. The enjoyment within this squad to play badminton was always on show and the squad certainly represented Strathcona with pride each week. Cynthia Shi, Badminton Captain said, “GSV badminton was a really wonderful experience this term! Even as a partner sport, the teamwork, camaraderie and encouragement shown across junior, intermediate and the senior teams was incredible to see. I'm really happy to see a lot more people getting involved in all year levels than ever before. Best of luck to the teams next year!”

Soccer had great numbers in our Junior Squad, which is very exciting as we aim to improve participation in the coming years across Inter and Senior levels. The teamwork in the Junior team was often on show and the excitement evident as they fought well each match. The final junior match of the season was a great 3-1 win over St Margaret's that really portrayed the Strathcona Spirit and the importance of playing well as a team. Each Strathcona goal was met with thunderous cheers from teammates and parents supporting along from the sidelines in the damp conditions at Highfield Park. Emma Prest captained our senior team which consisted of students from Years 9 to12 who were big of heart in all their efforts on Monday afternoon across the term, recording some fantastic results and scoring some ripper goals.

Snow Sports had a strong group of students across the Junior and Senior School. Mr Wyatt took dry-land training with our team coming together to work on skills, fitness and build the team-spirit ahead of the Victorian Interschools Championships. Emma Prest set the tone for our team being our sole competitor at the State cross-country event, placing an incredible 7th to qualify for Nationals. Two weeks later, 21 students took to the slopes showing great endeavour and proudly representing Strathcona with courage at Mt Buller. A big congratulations to Ava Armstrong and Claudia Appleton who also qualified for Nationals in two events. Mr Egan, our new Head of Snow Sports was impressed with the squad's efforts and is looking forward to watching Strathcona Snow Sports grow.

Kayaking continued to flourish with the TC kayak sheds being improved much to the delight of the squad and Alex our Head of Kayaking. Rowing training has begun for the season, with the squad enthusiastically getting back out on to the water and welcoming new faces to the team.

Rhythmic gymnastics numbers are continuing to grow, with members loving their chance to learn new skills and make friends. Saturday Netball came to a conclusion with three teams participating in the finals with two victories on the day. Our netballers had a busy term with selected teams across Junior, Inter and Senior participating in the Netball Victoria School Championships.

Year 5/6 sport continued to flourish, with students taking part in a new sports model developed by Ms Spencer. Tuesday afternoons each week the students were divided into groups to learn and participate in hockey, aerobics, soccer, netball and water polo. By the end of the term each student had taken part in two of the five sports and will have new sports on offer to try in Term 4. Athletics was also undertaken in Term 3, with Year 4 to 6 enthusiastically joining the seniors for early morning training sessions at Box Hill Athletics Track and competing so well at the GSV Athletics Day and the District Athletics event late in the term. Megan Lee was outstanding, winning the 100m, 200m and anchoring the 4 x 100m events to make it through to the Boroondara Division Athletics Competition along with Ada Wang, Violet Bramley, Hallie Conway, Mila Nilson and Christina Lu.

Finally, Senior School GSV Athletics Carnivals were also this term, and our team performed heroically in the prelims making it to Division 2 Carnival for the Champs Day. Our Seniors did it again tying for first and winning the trophy, which means they have won Division 2 trophies across all three of the carnival sports this year in swimming, cross-country and athletics - a great effort! Our teams were led so well by Olivia McInnes and Hannah Taylor who along with 17 others made Athletics Finals night a great reward for a brilliant season of athletics. Podium finishes from finals night were Gabby King winning the year 10 400m, Mariah Pezos second in the Year 12 discus and Sophie McIntosh also second in the Year 12 100m hurdles.

Congratulations to all students who gave sport a go for Strathcona this term. Your efforts are always appreciated, and you should be super proud of yourselves. Girls Unstoppable in sport!

Tamsyn Manou
Director of Sport

The highlight of our year was undoubtedly the Centenary Music Concert, held last Wednesday at the prestigious Melbourne Recital Centre. This event was a magnificent showcase of our students’ talents and dedication. The stunning venue provided the perfect backdrop for an evening filled with exceptional performances, celebrating our school’s musical heritage. Each student who participated should be immensely proud of their contribution to this unforgettable event.

In addition to the Centenary Music Concert, this term also featured other significant musical events. Music Camp, held in Week 2, was an enriching experience for all involved, providing
an opportunity for intensive practice and camaraderie among our young musicians. Week 5 saw the much-anticipated House Chorals, with a delightful Disney theme. We were honoured to have Fem Belling as our guest adjudicator, and another big congratulations to Grenfell House for their winning performance.

These events have not only highlighted the extraordinary talents of our students but also underscored the importance of music in our school’s culture. As we continue into Term 4, we look forward to the end of year Centenary events to again showcase the exceptional work of our students.

Dean Gourley
Head of Performing Arts

This year’s theme ‘Flight’, inspired an impressive array of artworks, with students employing a variety of mediums including oil paints, papier-mâché, and ceramics to bring their visions to life.

The Junior school’s exhibition offered an immersive experience with parents and families invited to walk through the Early Years Gallery that was transformed into a vibrant gallery. This interactive approach allowed visitors to engage closely with the students’ work, appreciating the intricate details and diverse techniques employed.

The Senior School exhibit featured an extensive collection of highly detailed artworks that showcased the individual artistic pursuits of our older students. The gallery atmosphere was enhanced by a string quartet playing in the background as families perused the students' work.

Central to the evening’s success was the mentorship provided by Lucy Hersey, our esteemed Artist in Residence. Her inspirational guidance and expertise sparked new levels of creativity amongst our students.

The Centenary Art Show not only celebrated the remarkable talent within our school but also highlighted the crucial role of community support in nurturing young artists. This support not only enhances the students' artistic development but also strengthens our commitment to the arts as a vital component of education and personal growth.

Tasmania
One group explored the stunning, picturesque landscapes of Tasmania, immersing themselves in nature with plenty of hiking, camping and sightseeing.

Mornington
Another group focused on wellbeing in Mornington, engaging in activities such yoga, self-defence, bush walking, sea kayaking and mindfulness activities. They had a visit from Strathy’s fur buddy Bailey also!

Grampians
Over in the Grampians, students took on some epic hikes, rock climbing and abseiling, pushing their limits in the Grampians National Park. It was incredible that several students with a fear of heights still had a go at the rock climbing and abseiling activities!

Bright
The Bright camp was all about adventure, with activities such as tobogganing in the snow, bike riding, and camping under the stars.

Each experience offered our students the chance to grow, connect, and create fun memories. The students and staff endured some challenging weather conditions but we are grateful for the positive attitudes, helping to make this week so special for everyone. We are proud of our students for pushing themselves outside their comfort zones and extending themselves.

Heads of House

Many students and staff excitedly arrived at school on Wednesday to meet and interact with Bailey! Some Year 10s on the Mornington Camp were even lucky enough to have Bailey join them too. Bailey has completed (and aced!) a Therapy Dog course and is well-prepared to provide joy, love, support and a sense of calm to the Strathcona staff and students. He is a 4-year-old Groodle/Maltese, loves cuddles, pats and playing ball games like fetch, footy, soccer and basketball! Bailey already volunteers in aged-care homes and is thrilled to be able to join the lovely Strathy community to help promote engagement and overall wellbeing.

Welcome Bailey!

Jess Mitton
Head of Arnold House

The whole school assembly aimed to break barriers and foster understanding, build empathy, respect and inclusivity as we highlighted that we are united in our ability to connect and support one another. We were fortunate to have some of our Senior School deaf and hard-of-hearing students join us in an open dialogue about their unstoppable journey of living with hearing loss.

Liza Griffin, Art Leader, graciously shared how fortunate she feels to have the opportunity to attend Strathcona Girls Grammar, an opportunity that she would not have without the generous scholarship granted to her by the Beth MacLaren Smallwood Fund.

An important part of Deaf Awareness is understanding that there are many deaf Australians who are either born into deaf families or feel more comfortable using sign language to communicate rather than relying on the challenge of listening and lipreading. Together the Strathcona community learnt how to sign the Auslan (Australian Sign Language) alphabet. By the end of the assembly, staff and students could spell their names and introduce themselves in Auslan. It was wonderful to see both the staff and students so enthusiastic and receptive to this learning experience.

The Friday House Challenge gave students the opportunity to apply their new Auslan skills in a game of Deaf Chinese Whispers. Teams from different Houses raced to be the first to accurately convey their message by fingerspelling with the Auslan alphabet. Amid much laughter, the girls learned the importance of patience and the challenge of relying solely on vision and hands for communication. Congratulations to all who participated!

Strathcona’s Deaf Awareness Week also offered staff a valuable opportunity to reflect on the importance of protecting our hearing - a sense often taken for granted. In support of this event, Allison Baker, a visiting audiologist from Hearing Australia, conducted hearing screenings for interested staff members. By taking proactive measures, such as avoiding excessive noise, using ear protection, and seeking regular hearing check-ups, we can preserve this essential sense for the long term.

An important aspect of the week was our Butterfly Cupcake stalls that operated to raise money for Deaf Children Australia. Deaf Children Australia is a non-for-profit organisation that champions the growth and social inclusion of deaf and hard-of-hearing children and young people. They offer transformative programs and services, empowering families and fostering community connections for confident, thriving young Australians. A huge thank you to Cathy Smith and her team in the Canteen who, without their support and hard work, this event would not have been possible.

Butterfly Cupcake Stall raised $910 for Deaf Children Australia.
A huge thank you to everyone who supported this event.

Julia Baker
Hearing Support Coordinator

When I’m not at Strathcona, I’m involved with a local Baptist Church, New Community Ringwood, which operates an Op Shop. The funds raised by our Op Shop support various community initiatives, including:

- New Community Meals: A weekly meal program in Croydon.
- New Community Heal Clinic: Provides free remedial massage to the homeless and marginalized, alongside a drop-in centre, offering friendship, support, training, cooking classes, lunch, and free haircuts.
 - Lion Cubs: An intergenerational music program at Lionsbrae Aged Care.

The church is committed to using all profits from the New Community Op Shop to benefit local projects like these. Our Op Shop relies on generous donations of high-quality items, which are collected through bins placed at various locations. By partnering with organisations such as churches and schools, we ensure that donors are aware of the impact of their contributions, and we can share the positive outcomes with students.

Strathcona's clothing donation bin is located on the corner of Bryson St and Claremont Cres, near the staff carpark - please drop your donations in!

Bronwyn Arnott
Junior School Chaplain

Orelia has performed piano at a number of Victorian competitions including Ballarat, Warrnambool, Ringwood, Monash and Melbourne as well as interstate at Gold Coast, Devonport, Latrobe and Adelaide. Well done Orelia!

We inspire and engage students through dynamic teaching, fostering a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom. Our students are encouraged to explore new opportunities, participate in national and international competitions, and discover their own unique connection to science. From content-based exams to hands-on experimental challenges, Strathcona students are supported in their pursuit of excellence. 

This year, one of our Year 12 Chemistry students, Vinny Liang, proudly represented Australia at the International Chemistry Olympiad in Saudi Arabia. This achievement showcases not only our students' academic abilities but also their determination to engage with science on a global stage. Last week the Year 11 Chemistry students had the opportunity to participate in the Titration Competition run by the Royal Australian Chemical Institution. We had 18 students who were keen to put their titration skills to the test in their free time, showing immense dedication to their learning and skill development. Competitions like the Titration Competition allow students to apply their knowledge in practical settings, conducting precise experiments and honing their problem-solving skills. These experiences empower our students to step up, stand out, and become the next generation of innovators.

As we reflect on Strathcona’s century of accomplishments, we celebrate the unstoppable journey of our young women in STEM. We are committed to empowering them to go beyond the classroom, connect with the broader scientific world, and embrace the challenges of the future. Through their curiosity and determination, they are shaping a future where scientific discovery and innovation continue to thrive at Strathcona.
Girls Unstoppable in science!

Jia Cao
Science Teacher 

We started at Roule Galette, a French crêperie where the girls ordered some delicious Crêpes in French and interacted with the French waiters. We then went to LUME and experienced the life and genius of Leonardo da Vinci who lived for many years in France. The girls had been studying him, his influence on the Renaissance, and his connection with France. A wonderful day out!

Virginia Prior
Head of Languages

Their mini-model was to represent a moment or significance from the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.  One piece symbolises the recognition of gender parity in the games, showing a double-sided head: female and male. Another represents the glory of Australian swimmers triumphing toward their trophy. A set of scales in human form, demonstrates the balance of courage and heart.

Liesl Wood
Teacher

The Go Girls Foundation is dedicated to empowering women at risk in local communities across Melbourne and Regional Victoria. They support women who have experienced domestic violence, illness, social isolation, and homelessness, helping them become work-ready and financially independent. Their mission is to ensure that every woman has a plan for her path forward, feels confident and in control of her life, and is supported to create a vision for her own future.

The inaugural Go Girls 100km Challenge is more than just a physical event - it’s a powerful statement of solidarity and commitment. Teams from over a dozen local girls' schools will be running 50km to raise awareness and funds that will support the reach and longevity of the Go Girls Foundation’s vital programs.

Each step taken will help provide women at risk with the resources they need to pursue their dreams and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities. We have also developed many personal links to the event, with several of our students sharing their support in promotional content for the organisation, and our Director of Sport, Tamsyn Manou, serving as the ambassador for the event! You can see some of their content and follow ‘The Race to $300k’ of donations here.

Empowerment, unity and making a difference are key focuses of the day, with students banding together to ‘Run For Her Freedom.’ To support our students and their efforts, please visit the Go Girls 100km Challenge website here, where you are able to donate to individual students, teams, or on behalf of the broader Strathcona community.

Abbey Zito
Year 9 Teacher

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• Diploma of Nursing Pathway at Box Hill Institute
• Diploma of Teacher Education Preparation
• VCE Extension Studies in 2025
• Where can an Arts Degree take you?
• Global And International Studies Degrees in Victoria in 2024
• Health Science Degrees in Victoria in 2024
• Snapshot of The University of Sydney in 2024
• Snapshot of the University of Queensland (UQ) in 2024

Click here to read the full version of Career News

We are delighted to have Strathcona’s Director of Sport and Olympian, Tamsyn Manou as our guest speaker for the evening.

As part of the evening, we are offering two complimentary Gin Tasting sessions with the team from Mitchelton. If you are interested in participating in this, please ensure you book in for this at registration. Please note that there are only a limited number of spaces available per session.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, a business professional, or someone looking to expand your network, this event offers the perfect platform to discover what others in the Strathcona community are up to, explore potential collaboration opportunities, promote your business and build valuable relationships.

Wednesday 9 October - 6.30pm - 8.00pm - Strathcona Early Years Community Space

Book your tickets here.

• Up for a holiday adventure
• Keen to explore a remote wilderness area of Australia
• Looking for an exciting personal growth transition experience between school years or Y12 and university, or even
• Contemplating a career in the outdoors.

Outward Bound Australia is well positioned to inspire women to adventure outdoors – with female leadership from our Co-Chairs, CEO, Head of Operations, and >60% female field staff. This adventure will, of course, be female led and we'd love to have some of your girls join us.

Please click here to watch a short video of the program.

Come along and experience the TeamKids difference:
•  Learn new skills and make new friends
• Qualified and REMARKABLE Educators
• Digital detox with our no screens policy
• Delicious and nutritious morning and afternoon snacks
• CCS-approved care 

To see the full list of activities and pricing click here. 

For ELC activities and pricing click here. 

Head to teamkids.com.au to secure your spot!