Term 4, Week 5, 2024 Finding balance and prioritising wholebeing 7 Nov 2024

For Years 9, 10, and 11, exams are just around the corner, and we encourage everyone to keep a balanced approach as they study and prepare. Wholebeing goes beyond academics; it involves nurturing our physical, emotional, and mental health to ensure we stay grounded. Our SOUL and Learning Legacy periods prepare students in many ways for examinations and self-regulation. By finding a balance, students can approach their goals with focus and resilience.

Meanwhile, countless hours of unseen work continue, with teachers marking trial papers, preparing lessons, and guiding students as they strive toward excellence. I am so blessed to have such a tremendous and dedicated staff across all campuses who are committed to enriching our students’ learning experience in so many ways.

Early Years Opening
A recent highlight has undoubtedly been the opening of our new Early Years Campus. This superb space embodies our commitment to fostering a nurturing environment from the earliest stages of learning. We are proud of the visible dedication of our staff in bringing this vision to life, with a special thank you to everyone who helped make the launch memorable.

Our Board Chair, Mrs Jocelyn Furlan asserts that, 'The Strathcona Board is really proud of the collaboration and support of the Strathcona Senior Leadership Team in developing both the outstanding physical spaces and the innovative Floresco philosophy to set our youngest students on the best possible path for lifelong learning.'

I believe the true power of our Early Years Campus lies in its ability to empower - allowing children to embrace their natural curiosity and humanity, free from unnecessary restrictions. It enables teachers to meet each child at their unique stage of learning, responding authentically to their interests. This campus, both inside and out, is a remarkable space inspired by global best practices, yet its real impact is found in the relationships it fosters and the programs it sustains - it's the people who make it extraordinary.

Our Global Connections
At Strathcona, we take pride in the rich and diverse cultures that make our community both inclusive and unique. Our goal is to foster an environment where every student feels a genuine sense of belonging, experiences our values in action, and is empowered to discover their true self. This term, we celebrate Diwali, a festival symbolising light, unity, and renewal. It’s a time that inspires us to embrace learning and change, lighting the way forward with wisdom, compassion, and a spirit open to growth.

Our thoughts and prayers
In light of the recent tragedy at Auburn South Primary School, we are deeply reminded of the fragility and preciousness of life. As they navigate this heartbreaking time, our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected, including members of our own Strathcona community - families, students, and staff. Such moments highlight the significance of small, everyday things: a kind word, a shared smile, or a hug from a loved one. They urge us to cherish our connections and time together, recognising each day as a gift. Let us keep our loved ones close and approach each day with renewed gratitude and compassion.

Community Events
In the vibrant spirit of community and celebration, we hosted our annual Spring Racing Carnival Ladies Lunch, a gathering filled with elegance, laughter, and monochromatic spring flair. Parents, staff, and friends came together to connect, share, and enjoy a truly memorable afternoon. Our Director of Sport, Tamsyn Lewis Manou, captivated and inspired us as our guest speaker, setting a lively tone for the day. Highlights included a spirited round of Bespoke Bingo and some friendly competition in Fashions on the Field. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, an exciting raffle raised funds to gift our students with stylish new outdoor furniture for our courtyard. A heartfelt thank you to parents, Sophie Smith and Jade O’Shea, for once again bringing this cherished event to life with such flair and enthusiasm.

The wait is almost over for this weekend for Strathcona’s much-anticipated Centenary Celebration – Evening Under the Stars! Thanks to the remarkable dedication of the Strathcona Family Association, led by the spirited Mr Chris Howell. This event sold out within days, and is a true testament to the unity and enthusiasm of our Strathcona community. After countless hours of planning and preparation, everything is just about in place - now all we need is a touch of sunshine to set the scene. The stage is set, so as ABBA would say, 'Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!' a night filled with fun, community, and unforgettable celebration!

Please click here for event information for Evening Under the Stars

The Countdown is on
As we return from the recent mid-term break, we hope everyone had the chance to pause, recharge, and enjoy meaningful time with loved ones. Breaks like these are precious opportunities for rest, reflection, and connection beyond the routine of school life. Spending quality time with family, a foundation of wellbeing, allows us to slow down, appreciate those closest to us, and find renewed energy and joy to fuel us through the final stretch of the term. We trust each family enjoyed a restful break filled with laughter, relaxation, and moments that nurture wholebeing, as the countdown to Christmas begins.

I look forward to welcoming you all to Melbourne’s Town Hall for our Centenary Presentation Evening (Years 5 to 12) on Tuesday 10 December.

Lorna Beegan
Principal

One of the core values we uphold is the importance of balance in every student's academic journey. As Aristotle once said, 'Education of the mind without education of the heart is no education at all.' With this in mind, our approaches integrate both intellectual and emotional growth to support the whole student. In practice, this means encouraging our students to explore mindfulness, resilience, and self-awareness alongside their studies, building a solid foundation for lifelong learning

Junior School Strategies
For younger students, a balanced approach to learning starts with simple routines.

Time for Play:
Research supports that play helps to foster curiosity and emotional growth. Within the EYC and Junior School students have regular breaks and encourage active play, which refreshes them for focused learning sessions. As Albert Einstein said, 'Play is the highest form of research.'

Mindful Moments:
Practising short, mindful breathing exercises or visualisation activities helps younger students manage feelings of frustration or excitement. Starting the day with a few deep breaths sets a calm tone for learning.

Goal Setting with Encouragement:
Setting small, achievable goals builds confidence. Teachers help students outline tasks for the day, and at home, parents can ask about these goals, celebrating each accomplishment.

Middle School Strategies
As students enter adolescence, managing time and expectations becomes more important.

Study through Blocking Time:
Middle School students benefit from dividing their study time into blocks, alternating subjects to avoid burnout. Encourage them to take a 5-minute break every 25 minutes, a technique known as the Pomodoro Technique.

Healthy Study Spaces:
Creating a calm, uncluttered study environment at school and home can boost concentration and reduce stress. This may include a dedicated, tech-free area with adequate lighting and minimal distractions.

Self-Reflection:
We encourage students to journal their learning helps them reflect on what they’ve accomplished and areas for improvement. This supports the quote by Linda Conway, 'It is not what is poured into a student that counts, but what is planted.'

Use of the Knowledge Exchange and seeking extra support:
Students can attend the Knowledge Exchange to receive extra help from our Academic tutors. Working in a supportive and calm culture, helps reduce stress and builds resilience.

Senior School Strategies
Senior students face unique pressures and need sustainable habits.

Prioritise and Plan:
Our senior school students are taught through LLP the benefits of how to prioritise tasks, using tools like planners or digital calendars to structure study time and social activities, achieving a sense of balance. Students are also reminded to vary the study techniques they have been modelled to continue to engage in their study and revision.

Practice Self-Care:
Regular exercise, nutritious meals, and adequate sleep fuel the body and mind. We also encourage students to limit screen time an hour before bed, aiding relaxation and sleep quality.

Use of the Knowledge Exchange and Supportive Peer Groups:
Students can form study groups and work in the Knowledge Exchange, sharing resources and encouraging each other. As they work together, they cultivate a supportive culture, which helps reduce stress and builds resilience.

At-Home Strategies for Families
Parental support is essential in fostering wholebeing outside of school.

Model Balance:
Demonstrate balanced routines at home by setting time aside for work, exercise, and relaxation, showing students the value of a well-rounded life.

Celebrate Efforts Over Results:
Both in and out of the classroom we encourage students by praising their hard work, resilience, and growth, not just their grades. This reinforces their confidence and motivates them to keep trying.

By working together to build balanced habits, we can empower each student to flourish academically, emotionally, and socially.

Kara Baxter
Dean of Teaching and Learning

Year 2 Excursion
Last week, the Year 2 girls had an enlightening excursion to an Indigenous site managed by the Aboriginal association Willum Warrain, meaning, ‘Hut by the sea’. This visit was part of their inquiry topic, ‘Our Country’.

The students learned about Indigenous history and traditions, including the fascinating Wollert Wollert, a possum skin cloak that grows with the wearer and provides year-round warmth. They learnt about the many different Indigenous tribes and languages spoken across the country. They also explored native plants and how Indigenous Australians used them to treat illness and keep insects away.

The day concluded with a traditional smoking ceremony for cleansing and a blessing using Ochre paint. This rich learning experience left a lasting impression on the students.

Science Discovery Dome
Last Wednesday, Junior School students were immersed in the world of weather, seasons, planets and space as we welcomed the Science Discovery Dome to Strathcona. The inflatable 360° digital dome is an interactive experience where students view real-time sky and weather patterns, explore constellations and learn about the galaxy we call home. These learnings tie in with Junior School's Inquiry units about 'Our World' and certainly sparked curiosity amongst students about professions in meteorology, earth science and astronomy.

Year 4 Camp

The Year 4s have attended an exciting, adventure-filled camp at Gundiwindi Lodge in Silvan. The students enjoyed the flying fox and giant swing, while the night walk added a touch of mystery and excitement. Hut building was a fun challenge, and the girls especially loved the cosy experience of sleeping in their cabins.

Eleni Kyritsis
Deputy Head of Junior School

In a world that often pushes us to move faster and achieve more, this moment is an invitation to pause, to embrace a sense of balance, and to recognise the importance of nurturing our whole selves. Our students have grown in countless ways over this year—not only through academic challenges but through moments of joy, curiosity, and connection. Here at Tay Creggan, we hope this year has been one that has encouraged them to see that real growth is about more than reaching a destination; it’s about learning how to move thoughtfully through life, appreciating each precious moment.

As our Year 9 students prepare to step into new environments and face fresh challenges and opportunities, we hope each person is able to carry forward the wisdom they’ve gathered here at TC: that a meaningful life is one that values balance, that cares for the whole person, and that finds strength not only in achievement but in compassion, connection, and a sense of wonder. Throughout the year, we’ve encouraged our girls to 'Take Charge… and be unstoppable!'… and it has been a privilege to watch them shape this year of discovery and transformation.

Reflecting on the past two weeks, Tay Creggan has been alive with energy and activity. We were recently visited by Ian Primrose, affectionately known as the Yarra Keeper, who brought the Yarra River to life for us with his incredible stories. He shared the river’s fascinating history and its deep significance to the community and the ecosystem it supports. As the Yarra flows at the base our beautiful campus, Ian’s stories connected us all to the environment in a meaningful way, inspiring our students to think about how they, too, can move through life with purpose and respect for the world around them.

Halloween brought some wonderful, spooky fun to campus, and last Thursday, Tay Creggan was transformed! Students and staff embraced the season with costumes, decorations, and festive spirit that lent itself all the way to our 'haunted basement’. In the middle of a busy term, it was a great reminder to pause, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company—it’s often these joyful moments that stick with us the longest.

Our visit to Healesville Sanctuary was another opportunity for students to connect with nature, this time getting up close with Australia’s unique wildlife. It was an inspiring day, where our students learned about conservation and animal care, reminding them of the importance of compassion and stewardship for the creatures with whom we share our planet.

Finally, we had a day of pure adventure stand-up paddle-boarding at St Kilda. Balancing on a paddleboard is no small feat, but our students tackled it with resilience and enthusiasm. As they laughed, wobbled, and paddled together, it was a perfect metaphor for finding balance in life. The experience encouraged everyone to be present, embrace each moment, and remember that life’s journey, like paddle-boarding, is all about enjoying the ride, even when it gets a bit bumpy.

As we close out the term, we hope these experiences have fostered a deep sense of wellbeing and balance in our students. As they journey onward into Senior School, we trust that the memories and lessons of their time at Tay Creggan —of nature, connection, joy, and resilience—will continue to guide them as they continue to grow. We couldn’t be prouder of the young adults they are becoming and look forward with excitement to all the incredible paths that await them.

Jen Buchanan
Head of Tay Creggan

We celebrated another racing season in ultimate style with the chic Derby Day black and white theme, exuding timeless elegance and sophistication.

From the beautiful floral arrangements on the tables to the purchase of many bottles of G.H. Mumm during the afternoon, the company was delightful and the energy in the room amazing. The photo booth was a major hit as hats and fascinators filled the garden room with everyone truly embracing the theme.

Thank you to our guest speaker, Tamsyn Manou, our own Director of Sport, who shared her amazing life’s journey. What an absolutely inspirational career in athletics to now commentating at the Paris Olympics. Tamsyn is an amazing role model for all women and, in particular, our students.

Also, thanks to my two parent organisers, Sophie Smith and Jade O’Shea, who contribute to the success of the lunch year after year.

The raffle held during the lunch raised nearly $3,000 which will be used to purchase new outdoor furniture for the courtyard. Thank you to our generous donors of so many prizes.

Our fabulous Strathy mums attended an afternoon filled with laughter, great food, and plenty of bubbles. Here’s to next year’s lunch which will again be filled with glamour and good times.

Building on their Junior School experiences, they have progressed through the core themes of SOUL—Self, Others, Us, and Love. Our aim for Year 7 and 8 SOUL is to provide a curriculum tailored to their needs, promoting a rich learning experience that enhances wellbeing and fosters positive, real-world knowledge and skills.

In Terms 3 and 4, students have applied what they've learned to create their own inquiry projects, focused on identifying and addressing needs in diverse communities. Through careful research and prototyping, they developed innovative solutions, thoughtfully justifying their choices.

This week, students from both year levels participated in a project showcase, styled as an expo, where they shared and celebrated each other’s work. This event highlighted the depth of their curiosity, commitment, and creativity.

By engaging with a variety of topics through the Design Thinking Model, students are building skills and awareness that strengthen their content knowledge, social and interpersonal abilities, and curiosity. Congratulations to all students and their mentors for their hard work, rigorous thinking, and outstanding achievement

This year's competition showcased the students' dedication and enthusiasm for mathematics, as they tackled complex problems and engaged in innovative research and project work.

We are proud to announce that three of our participants (Holly He, Kary Wong, Bessie Xie) received High Commendation for their exceptional work, while four others were awarded Merit (Julia Zhu, Rayna Weng, Yuxin Yang, Emma Shen).

Congratulations to all our students for their hard work and achievements! Their participation in such a prestigious competition reflects our school's commitment to fostering a love for learning and excellence in mathematics. We encourage our students to continue exploring their passion for mathematics and to strive for further success in future competitions.

Well done to our remarkable mathematicians!

Sanjeev Meston
Head of Mathematics

Congratulations to our three Strathy girls that competed over the last two weekends at Lakeside Stadium. Well done to Olivia Collett (Year 10), Mariah Pezos (Year 12) and Gabby King (Year 10)!

Under 20 Discus
Mariah Pezos 2nd

Under 17 400m
Gabrielle King 2nd
Olivia Collett 8th

Under 17 800m
Olivia Collett 7th
Gabrielle King 9th

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Work Experience at Strathcona
— A More Flexible, Tailored Approach to Work Experience

At Strathcona, students are encouraged and supported to organise one or more Work Experience placements from Year 10 to12, scheduled during holiday periods that best suit both them and their employers. This flexible, personalised approach allows Strathcona students to explore a range of potential career paths.

The school offers guidance and support on how to search for and secure placements, with consistent reminders and encouragement for all students to complete at least one placement during their senior years. Many of the Work Experience placements are facilitated by the Inner Eastern Local Learning and Employment Network (IELLEN), providing students with a broad selection of industries to choose from, including law, architecture, engineering, retail, health, hospitality, and more.

Below is feedback from students who participated in Work Experience during the September school holidays.

'My work experience at Siemens was a fantastic learning journey. I was taught how to use a CAD programme, gained 3D printing skills which i applied to a real-world problem and even participated in factory assembly. I worked alongside experienced engineers and gained valuable insight into what a future career as an engineer would entail. From understanding the project brief to testing the final prototype. I’m grateful for the opportunity and look forward to building on this experience in the future.'
Kamila Ibragimova - Siemens Australia

'Despite, or maybe because, both my parents are doctors, I’d always discounted medicine as a potential career path. I figured that I preferred my English and humanities subjects, so why would I even consider something so science based? Then I got the opportunity to do some work experience with an Ophthalmologist and decided to rope in a friend and do it. We got to observe patient consultations, take vision field tests, check eye-pressures, use slit lamps, and take photos of each other’s retinas. And it was actually really interesting, with so much variety – each case was different, and a large part of the skill set was interacting with people. I realised that maybe, just maybe, being a doctor could be a real career option for me. I added Chemistry to my VCE subjects, and now, even if I don’t end up doing medicine, at least I can say I seriously considered it. So, to anyone thinking about it, I’d highly recommend doing some sort of work experience, whether it’s in a field you think you’d be interested in or not and keep an open mind so you don’t miss out on what could be your ideal career.'
Rebecca Tong - Melbourne Children’s Eye Clinic

'Work experience at the Australian Federal Police for forensics was amazing. In a small group, we investigated our own case, right from the first briefing to evidence recovery, to analysing the evidence, to a moot court, we were able to experience all the different forensic fields. Working on scenes, in labs and getting special tours around the facility, we were able to get a real glimpse of the everyday as a Crime Scene Investigator, in Evidence Recovery and as an Analyst. As we spoke to experienced members of each team, we were able to learn about real cases and their pathways to get to the AFP, which was so inspiring.'
Laura Cairo - AFP Forensics Work Experience Program

Xin Chen
Head of Careers and Pathways