Issue 7 2023

Issue#7 | 2023

Magazine

Welcome Welcome to the seventh edition of the Braemar Buzz. This edition includes a reflection on the events that have taken place since the start of the term, and it has been a busy one.

We celebrated together at the town hall, observed our Year 12 students start their VCE examination journey, enjoyed nights of musical entertainment and fundraising, welcomed the 2024 leaders, completed our EXEAT ‘23 program and started welcoming our 2024 cohort onto campus. All these activities were undertaken by enthusiastic staff, students, and leaders who are working hard to make the conclusion of the year a great one, living up to our motto for the year, “being the best we can be in ‘23”. Enjoy reading!

Mr Russell Deer Principal

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P&F Update The Parents and Friends Association will be concluding this year with a final gettogether on Tuesday, 14 November. At the beginning of this term, the association held its AGM, and we are delighted to welcome Julia Davidson as the new President for 2024. Rebecca McNair will join her as the Secretary. We would like to extend our gratitude to the outgoing President, Nicole Carracher, Secretary Kath Briety, and Treasurer, Jenny Rossi, for their dedicated service to the association.

The Parents and Friends Association is a group that raises both funds and friends.

This year, the group conducted a successful bulb drive, raising significant funds and populating gardens throughout the Macedon Ranges. After many years of absence from our calendars due to the pandemic, the annual Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea was finally held, and the association supported the work of our artists in their annual acquisition prize. Congratulations to Maisie Broome for having her beautiful works selected this year.

Despite efforts to conduct other events, getting them off the ground after the pandemic has proved to be harder than anticipated. In 2024, the group is looking forward to hosting the welcome events at the beginning of the year for families as they start their Braemar journey.

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Contents Welcome Mr Russell Deer

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P&F Update

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Head of Middle School Mr Rob Jenkins

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Head of Senior School Ms Lisa Fritz

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Celebration Night

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Dean of Wellbeing and Culture Mrs Emma Grant

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Dean of Learning and Teaching Ms Lisa-Jayne Lacey

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Director of Music Dr Jacky Ogeil

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Director of Sport Mr Matt Ellis

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Queens Scout

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VCE Visual Art Exhibition

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College Reunions

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Overseas and Interstate Trips

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Yeat 8 EXEAT

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SchoolTV Special Report: Respectful Relationships

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“Don’t be afraid of endings, for they hold the promise of new beginnings.”

I was fortunate to be able to spend some time with our Year 8 students in the Grampians for their Exeat Program throughout this week. It was rewarding to see the connections that had formed between students throughout the year on display in range of different activities including hiking, canoeing, rock climbing and community service initiatives with local organisations such as the CFA. These engagements with the community were a fitting connection to the community service projects that were undertaken by the cohort throughout Term 3. Before too long these students will make a final journey on foot to Mount Macedon to recognise their time in the Middle School as part of the Year 8 Celebration Day on Wednesday 29 November. Following this, students across the College will transition to their 2024 year levels for the Headstart Program. This experience will provide an opportunity to connect with teachers and students in preparation for the year ahead.

Over the last 2 weeks, we welcomed all of the new Year 5 and 7 students that will be joining us in 2024 for their Cluster Visit days. These days provided students an opportunity to begin forming connections with students from other schools before they create a new cohort next year. It was great to see so many new smiling faces at the end of the sessions and the conversation that ensued between parents who were meeting for the first time also.

Celebration Night provided an opportunity to recognise a number of Middle School students for their commitments to their studies and their involvement in the broader life of the College. In addition, our Middle School Captains farewelled the class of 2023 on behalf of the Middle School community. Their time as leaders of Years 5 to 8 will come to a conclusion in the coming weeks as they move to the Senior School and the appointment process for positions of leadership in 2024 is finalised. I was able to review the applications for many of these roles and know that the calibre of leaders that applied are a recognition of the overall strength of the future Year 8 cohort in 2024.

In the coming weeks we will welcome parents to a number of exhibitions of learning, including the Year 6 Global Diversity Expo and the Year 7 Ancient Artefact Expo. I am thrilled to be able to showcase the visible products of student’s time in the classroom and also hear students speak about their experiences of learning. This is an important part of celebrating the connection between students, parents and the College in the journey of all of our young people.

At the beginning of the week, we will have 20 school days remaining for students in their current cohorts before they transition to their class groups for 2024 and begin the Headstart program. We will also again welcome new students from our Year 5 and Year 7 cohorts for next year on Orientation Days that will be led by our current students and provide a great point of connection to build on in the year to come. I encourage all students to focus on finishing their time at the College for the year strongly and remember that the lasting imprint that they will leave for themselves and others will come from their final moment of the year.

I am proud to begin reflecting on all of the successes that we have experienced collectively and also the individual triumphs that each and every student will be able to acknowledge at the conclusion of 2023.

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Mr Rob Jenkins Head of Middle School

I hope this Buzz update finds you well and ready for the exciting events as we head towards the end of the school year. As 2023 is rapidly coming to a close, it has been wonderful to see the traditions of the College return to pre-COVID times. The departure of the 2023 Year 12 cohort culminated in the Year 12 celebration day, where the students celebrated their 13 years of schooling by changing their uniforms and hairstyles for the day and hosting a Year 12 assembly for the Senior School. The day ended with a picnic lunch for the Year 12 cohort, and in the final days, the students expressed their heartfelt thanks to their tutors and teachers who have supported them throughout the year, acknowledging the efforts and support from others, from this year and all their previous years.

All students completing Unit 3 and 4 examinations have been provided detailed information about their exams, and the 2023 VCE examination timetable can be found here . These examinations represent a critical milestone in a student’s academic journey. At the College, on behalf of all teachers and staff, we would like to extend our very best wishes to the Year 12 students as they undertake these examinations, and we collectively believe in their ability to excel and are proud of their achievements.

As we turn to and prepare for 2024, I was thrilled to announce and introduce the incoming 2024 leadership team of House Captains, Prefects, and College Captains at this year’s Celebration night. These student leaders have been carefully selected from an exceptional pool of candidates for their dedication, leadership qualities and commitment to our school community. The House Captains are responsible for leading their respective houses in promoting unity and teamwork and organising house events and activities. Prefects are crucial in connecting with and advocating for student voice across the College, leading the College’s values, developing focus areas and connections within groups beyond the College, and supporting College events.

In the Senior School, students from Years 9 to 11 are currently working towards their final units and end-of-topic assessments. They will soon start preparing for the end-of-year examinations also. Students who are completing Unit 1 & 2 subjects will sit for their examinations from 14 - 24 November, and the examination timetable is visible in SEQTA. These will assess the skills and tasks that will be required for students to prepare them for Units 3 & 4. Students in Years 9 and 10 will also sit for their examinations on 23 – 24 November for their core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science. The focus is on preparing and developing students’ skills, effective planning, and support in a sequential and age-appropriate manner. Students will receive assistance and support to help them prepare for and complete their examinations.

By mid-November, students will receive their subject lists based on the subjects they chose for the 2024 academic year. This will enable them to prepare for their Headstart program, which will take place at the end of November. If a student would like to change their subject choice, they are allowed to do so, depending on subject availability. Further detailed information will be provided to the students in the upcoming weeks about their 2024 subjects.

With the business of the term ahead, it is crucial that students plan ahead for the remainder of Term 4 to ensure they approach and meet all of the tasks and demands, as this will greatly benefit and support them. There are numerous supports and assistance available for students to access if needed, so please encourage students to reach out to their tutors and Year Level Leaders as their first point of should they need anything.

Ms Lisa Fritz Head of Senior School

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Celebration Night After being disrupted by COVID-19 for a few years, the College’s Celebration Night finally returned to the Melbourne Town Hall, where it was last held in 2019.

The event was a recognition ceremony for the student award winners at a subject level.

It was heartwarming to see many student recipients being acknowledged in front of a packed audience.

The House that places first in the College’s inter-house competition is awarded the Stan Payne Cup. This year, Farley House was the proud winner of the cup.

The major award winners were also recognised, with Mr Paul Handbury (Dame Elizabeth’s grandson) presenting the Dame Elizabeth Murdoch Award to Julia Smith.

The College’s student leaders for 2024 were also recognised, with the College Captains, Emily and Tadhg, presented to the College community.

The achievements of the 2023 Year 12 cohort were celebrated, and the choir performed a dedication. The 2023 cohort then led the Town Hall crowd in a rousing rendition of the College song.

Throughout the evening’s proceedings, members of the College’s strings and choirs provided performances that were truly exceptional. Like many people, I went home with the songs from Oliver stuck in my head after the outstanding performances by the cast of Oliver Jr, who performed three of the musical’s numbers.

I’d like to thank all the performers, cast and crew, as well as the staff members who made the evening a success.

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“The most powerful leadership tool you have is your own personal example.’

Leadership begins with self-awareness and the understanding that it is not a position but an attitude and a set of behaviours. Students who embody leadership understand that their actions, regardless of their official titles, influence those around them. They lead by example, inspiring others to take initiative, embrace responsibility, and work collaboratively. This kind of leadership is not confined to specific roles or organisations; it is a personal commitment to making a positive difference.

As our leaders for 2024 begin to emerge from strong cohorts and take shape, it’s an exciting and pivotal moment in our collective journey. The individuals who step forward to lead in the coming year have the potential to make a lasting impact on our community. With each passing year, leadership styles and approaches evolve to address the unique challenges and opportunities of the time. The emerging leaders of 2024 will need to adapt and innovate, drawing upon the lessons of the past while envisioning new solutions for an ever-changing world.

The leaders of 2024 ought to be mindful of the legacy they aim to leave behind. What kind of impact do they want to have, and how will their leadership contribute to the betterment of the community and the world? Learning to lead beyond a badge is a key aspect of this responsibility. It involves recognising that true leadership is not defined by a formal position but by one’s attitude and actions. This form of leadership goes beyond mere authority; it’s a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Leaders who embrace the concept of leading beyond a badge exhibit empathy, active listening, and an unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of their peers. They take the time to understand the needs and concerns of those they lead. By doing so, they create an environment where all voices are heard and valued. This inclusive approach empowers individuals to reach their full potential. Leaders serve as mentors and guides, offering support and encouragement to their peers, helping them overcome challenges and grow as individuals. In this way, leadership becomes a collaborative journey, rather than a solitary endeavour.

Crucially, this approach to leadership is deeply rooted in one’s personal identity. It reflects an individual’s values, principles, and character. Leaders draw from their own sense of self to guide their actions and decisions. By doing so, they bring authenticity and integrity to their leadership roles, earning the trust and respect of those they lead.

As the Year 12 cohort steps into their final year of schooling, they can make a profound impact on their school community. By leading beyond a badge, with empathy, active listening, and a commitment to the wellbeing of others, they can leave a legacy that reflects the strength of their personal identity and the positive influence they’ve had on their peers and the entire school. This transformative experience not only shapes their leadership journey but also contributes to the growth and wellbeing of their school community.

I thoroughly enjoyed the selection process and have witnessed the impressive calibre of applicants emerging from the 2023 Year 11 cohort. This experience of observing emerging leaders has been truly inspiring. It is a testament to the potential and promise of the next generation.

As the 2024 leadership cohort takes shape and begin their journey, they will have the chance to embrace their roles, learn from their experiences, and leave their mark on the school’s legacy.

It’s a time of great potential, and the anticipation of what lies ahead is indeed something to look forward to with enthusiasm and optimism. Here’s to an exciting 2024 at Braemar College.

Mrs Emma Grant Dean of Wellbeing and Culture 9 9

It has certainly been a very busy yet rewarding start to Term 4 in regard to teaching and learning. At this time of year, our focus shifts towards the VCE examination period and our students have certainly embraced the goal to “be the best [they] can be in ‘23”. Although Year 12 timetabled classes have come to a close, many have been attending tutorials with their teachers and using their feedback to work towards their individual goals in each subject. We wish them well for the remainder of their exams and thank all teachers for their contribution to each student’s academic journey.

Developing effective study strategies and techniques is key to ensuring that our students can grow and maximise their success academically throughout their education. This is currently a particular focus for our Year 9 and 10 cohorts as part of the Strive Academic program. Informed by the Science of Learning and, specifically, the Churchie Research Centre’s “A Learner’s Toolkit”, our students have been experimenting with the study tools below with a view to equipping them to be efficient and effective lifelong learners.

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Active Reading: Students use note taking strategies, such as Cornell notes, to construct meaning and interpret texts in an effective manner.

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Retrieval Practice: Students recall learned information from their long-term memory. This in turn helps consolidate learning and counteracts memory decline. For example, students can complete regular “quick review” tasks which involve them completing a problem or question from the knowledge or skills covered yesterday, last week and a month ago.

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Spaced Practice: Students leave gaps between study to reinforce their knowledge and understanding through the effort applied to remembering past concepts or content. Students have recently been experimenting with “brain dump” tasks, requiring them to retrieve information to create a visual map of their understanding.

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Interleaving: Students change the order or “jumble” what they study. This encourages them to use multiple processing strategies to see the links and compare concepts. Students have been experimenting with this strategy using flashcards.

Further information and additional study strategies can be found by accessing the Churchie Research Centre’s “A Learner’s Toolkit”, found here.

In the latest edition of the Braemar Buzz, I commented on the organised and diligent approach of students in Years 5-10 who participated in the ICAS tests.

The results are now available to students and their families. All participants received a participation award, and we have a number of students who achieved either a merit or credit. One of our Year 6 students also achieved a distinction in science. We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all participants on their achievements.

As we begin to approach the end of the year, planning gets underway for 2024.

The Early VCE English booklist has been distributed to all our Year 10 and Year 11 students and families. All other resource lists for 2024 will be made available shortly.

I hope that our students enjoy the remainder of Term 4, and take the opportunities available to them to learn, grow, and achieve their potential both inside and outside the classroom.

Ms Lisa-Jayne Lacey Dean of Learning and Teaching

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If you hear the music...

Formal occasions rely on music for a sense of ceremony and celebration. Celebration Night at the Melbourne Town Hall provided our students with a fantastic opportunity to perform in this magnificent historical venue with its unique ambience and acoustic. What a memorable evening. Our newly formed senior school percussion ensemble, under the direction of our percussion teacher Mr Maddison Carter, started the evening and led the processional. Congratulations to the following students on their performance: Amelia Evans: Snare, Jack Goodwill: Snare Drum, Edith Bruce: Snare Drum, Thomas Lineham: Crash Cymbals, Pippa Koster: Bass Drum and Lachlan Costello: Bass Drum Our string ensemble performed elegantly Mozart’s third movement, the Minuetto and Trio from “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik”. Violinists were Lauren Ho, Leila Jacobi, Eloise Carden, Julia Sykes and Lucy Sykes, cello. Well done again on a stunning and poised performance.

Members of the Oliver! JR. cast adapted wonderfully to the Town Hall stage and performed popular old-time favourites and highlights from the musical, led by our piano teacher Mr Jem Sherwill; Whowill-buy, Pick-a-pocket and Food Glorious Food. The acting, movement, singing and total immersion was inspiring. Congratulation to: Tate Anderson, Matilda Austin, Lucas Brand, Abigail Campbell, Eve Cannon, Sophie Cannon, Astrid Carter, William Chambers, Dorothy Chisnall-Parker, Iris Cross, Poppy Crawford, Jasmine Cross, Vera Cummings, Peter Dean, Avery Gill, Anouk Graftdyk, Ella Heywood, Elena Hudson, Sara James-Yeomans, John Harper, Sophie Kennedy, Pippa Koster, Sophie Kroker, Lewis Monet, India Rose Merrick, Rachel Owen, Ivy Ponomarev, Sienna Ranson, Ella Rayment, Evelyn Robson, Grace Salter, Alice Scanlon, Emily Shumack-Smith, Sylvia Siebrand, Terry Sutherland, Julia Sykes, Lucy Sykes, Eloise Tagell, Bronte Teed, Tomas Turner, Alice Van Dam, Tara Wilmann and May Zarins.

The Senior School Choir performed “We’re all in this together” from High School Musical as a tribute and send off to the Year 12. It was wonderful to hear the whole audience join in. Congratulations to Alanah Collins, Sienna Payne, Sophie Janusko, Cameron Schumack-Smith, Aidan Hunter, Emma Saunders, Sienna Baird, Lucy Sykes, Julia, Sykes, Harriet Millar, Christalyn Jacques and Mathilda Yap for your fine intonation and gusty performance.

Ms Rita Vandervalk accompanied the College song with Thomas Lineham on cymbals, who articulated the clap with great aplomb. The recessional was suitably grand with a performance of Toccata from Symphonie No. 5 by Charles-Marie Widor, performed by John O’Donnell. A special thanks to our hardworking instrumental music tutors who helped prepare and support the students.

And again, our congratulations to our performers for managing the acoustics of a new venue and performing so well.

Unit 2 performers – VET and VCE solo repertoire: Our unit 2 performers presented a fun concert in Jackson Hall, preparing their programs for their assessments and learning the art of sound production. Learning an instrument requires more than just practice – one also needs to practice the art of performing. Well done on exercising your stagecraft – both on stage and behind the scenes – to Finnian Farrell, Jack Goodsall, Lachlan Martin, Ella Petschel, Isabella Shaw, Patrick Sisk and Arabelle Poucher.

Ensemble program: Our ensemble program is a complimentary part of the Music Department program and is available for anyone who learns the appropriate instrument to participate in. Learning at the College is not a requirement.

As we prepare for 2024, please let me know if you are interested in joining the following ensembles: Middle School Percussion Ensemble, Middle School Choir, Middle School Guitar Ensemble, Senior School Percussion Ensemble, Senior School Choir, the new Senior School Stage Band and String Ensemble. If you are interested in participating, email me at j.ogeil@braemar.vic.edu.au Instrumental lessons: Finally, don’t miss out on a space next year to learn your favourite instrument.

Email your expression of interest before the 1 December: j.ogeil@braemar.vic.edu.au 11

Dr Jacky Ogeil Director of Music

Sport Update The 2023 ICCES Summer Cup created a buzz of activity as students from various schools across the region came together for an exhilarating day of competition at the annual Interschool Carnival on October 6, 2023. This multi-sport event was a testament to the dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship of all the young athletes. It’s been three years since the last edition of this carnival, and the students were eager to be a part of the competition.

The softball field witnessed intense action as teams from different schools showcased their skills and teamwork. The pitches were precise, and the fielding was sharp, resulting in closely contested matches. The camaraderie and healthy competition on the softball diamond were truly commendable. Congratulations to our Senior Girls team, who took out the win.

Whilst over at Victoria Park, the cricket enthusiasts were treated to an exceptional display of talent on the cricket pitch. The matches were intense, with fierce bowling, incredible batting, and skilful fielding. The dedication and strategic thinking of the young cricketers were apparent in each over.

The crowd cheered every boundary and wicket, adding to the electrifying atmosphere. Well done on all teams for a competitive day.

At Hollioake Park, the tennis courts buzzed with excitement as young players demonstrated their finesse and agility on the court. The backhand smashes, aces, and well-executed volleys left spectators in awe. The sportsmanship on display was remarkable, as students congratulated their opponents on great plays, win or lose.

Next door, at the Minerdome, the volleyball matches were marked by spectacular rallies, powerful spikes, and strategic blocks. The teams showcased their teamwork and coordination, making each set a thrilling battle. The athleticism and determination of the players were truly inspiring.

In stark contrast to the intense indoor stadium atmosphere, the golf course was a serene backdrop to an intense competition. Precision, focus, and patience were the keys to success on the greens. The young golfers demonstrated incredible skill, making each hole a challenge. The carnival was a fantastic platform for aspiring golfers to showcase their talent and sportsmanship.

Well done to Jack Roberts on being the equal winner.

The Interschool Carnival was not just a competition; it was a celebration of the spirit of unity among students from different schools. It provided an opportunity for young athletes to build friendships and showcase their skills while fostering the values of sportsmanship.

The 2023 ICCES Summer Cup was an overwhelming success, and it left everyone eagerly awaiting the next edition. The dedication and enthusiasm of the student-athletes were excellent, making it an event to remember.

Special thanks is extended to the schools, coaches, students, and volunteers for their continued support in making this carnival a memorable experience for all.

Mr Matt Ellis Director of Sport

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Queens Scout Four young people from the Macedon Ranges recently received their Queens Scout award in Jacksons Hall, which is located in our historic Braemar House. This award is the highest achievement in the scouting system, and it was presented by members of the scouting community.

Three of the four recipients are current Braemarians, and after receiving their award, Toby, Jack, and Bailey spoke to those who had supported them throughout their journey. As a scouting tradition, parents of the Queen’s Scouts were given a memento of the occasion, pinned onto them by their child.

The service was attended by a variety of family and friends and invited guests who were able to share in the moment before enjoying afternoon tea together. Congratulations to all the recipients!

VCE Visual Art Exhibition It’s the journey and the destination that counts.

As I write, our VCE cohort are in the midst of their examinations, attempting to put the metaphorical cherry on top of their coursework-cake. VCE Arts students work hard all year on their folios. By the time of their examination, nearly three-quarters of the assessment criteria has already been completed.

This year, the VCAA have introduced a new VCE course, Art Creative Practice, which we have implemented for the first time. Students have been eager to embrace the new curriculum, with a renewed focus on broader artistic practice, rather than a predominant focus on the final artworks. This new structure has allowed deeper investigations, both conceptually and into materials and techniques, while still utilising the work of established artists as initial inspiration. So, as with the itinerary for our inaugural cultural trip to Italy next year, it is the journey and the destination that share equal importance.

The annual VCE Visual Arts exhibition, displaying work from Unit 3 and 4 students who have undertaken Art Creative Practice, Visual Communication Design, and Media, opens on Monday 20 November at 7pm in Jackson Hall. Alongside final artworks, media products, and designs, we will have a selection of folios, demonstrative of the demandingyet-rewarding artistic voyage our arts students have travelled upon throughout the year. We hope to see you there!

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College Reunions After many years of delays caused by the pandemic, the College reunions have resumed. The first reunion was that of the ‘73 Clyde Old Girls. Although the Clyde School has alumni connections with Geelong Grammar, the girls share a spiritual connection with Braemar House and our school site.

They enjoyed gathering together for morning tea, catching up, and hearing about the current state of their beloved buildings before touring them. Some of the participants reflected that although their signatures had already been in the tower, this was potentially the first time they had legally ventured up the staircase. The Clyde class of ‘73 concluded their visit by donating a Japanese Maple to the College to be planted in the croquet lawn surrounds.

Recently the ‘88 Braemarians met in Melbourne’s CBD and enjoyed a 35th reunion. The event was a great success with so mamy of the cohort able to attend, from as far away as the UK and the Netherlands.

The 2013 group has expressed interest in getting together, so please keep an eye out for those details.

Finally, in mid-November, we are holding the traditional oneyear reunions, albeit delayed. We look forward to welcoming back the 2020, 2021, and 2022 cohorts as they return to the College. Arguably, these cohorts were some of the most impacted by COVID. The 2020 and 2021 graduates held their valedictories at the Woodend Campus, socially distanced on the oval. It will be an absolute pleasure to welcome them back for a face-to-face get-together.

One Year Reunion bookings:

https://www.trybooking.com/CMVOW

Finally, it’s time...

OLD COLLEGIANS

let’s get back together

one year reunion for classes of

2020, 2021 & 2022

Friday 17 November 2023

6.00-7.30pm

Finger food provided, drinks at bar prices We cant wait to welcome you, but we need to know you will be there

OLD COLLEGIANS

bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/CMVOW

14 We would love to see you again

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Overseas and Interstate Trips Well, almost all the Overseas and Interstate programs for 2023 have wrapped up. Three Braemar groups headed in different directions during the September holiday break, which seems like an eternity ago.

The Year 10 and 11’s were the first to leave, heading to Cambodia. The group, consisting of three staff and twenty-five students, flew out of Melbourne wearing jumpers and hoodies.

These were quickly discarded as they transited through Singapore to the Kingdom of Cambodia. Their first stop was Siem Reap, the second-largest city in Cambodia. Besides enjoying this beautiful city, our students went to Treak Community School to undertake community support work. The days flew by, and in no time, we had to bid farewell to the many smiling faces and new friends made. Next up was exploring the ruins of Angkor. Angkor’s vast complex of intricate stone buildings includes preserved Angkor Wat, the main temple, which is pictured on Cambodia’s flag. The group then jetted to the capital, Phnom Penh, which sits at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. The group visited many of the busy capital’s tourist sights and took a boat ride. They also saw the stark reminders of the recent uprisings in this tiny Kingdom. The group then enjoyed working with Free The Bears, a charity started in 1993 by Perth grandmother Mary Hutton. Mary reacted to a television program about the exploitation of bears and started this charity. Braemar students became “keeper for a day,” working behind the scenes to support the bears in the refuge. Finally, after some retail therapy, the group boarded their flight home.

Meanwhile, in the red heart of Australia, our Year 9 students were meeting the team from Remote Tours in Alice Springs. They landed in the centre of the Northern Territory and were quickly transported to the Watarrka School at Lilla. This has been a destination for Braemar students since 2010, and the many infrastructure projects undertaken by those before them were refreshed in readiness for the return of the students to Lilla for the Sport and Storytelling Festival. The students refreshed the gardens and sports areas, and for those Old Collegians who are reading, there is always plenty of buffel grass to remove. Interspersed between the hard work were swims and walks, including the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, which started early to avoid the rising temperatures. The group completed their time in the centre by visiting the iconic Uluru. This impressive sandstone monolith sits at the red heart of our country, and the group enjoyed being taken around the rock by local guides. Jetting back to Melbourne via a delayed Sydney flight extended the journey a little but did not dampen the enthusiasm of the travellers.

Almost in stark contrast, our Year 8 travellers were enjoying the equally iconic Great Barrier Reef. The group, based in Cairns, enjoyed the inner and outer reef, including overnighting on Flinders Island and helping Marine Biologists with species counts. They balanced their marine adventures with programs in the Daintree Rainforest, including a hunting-gathering session with indigenous guides. Happily, it was Braemar 1, Mud Crabs 0, rather than the reverse, and the group enjoyed the fruits of their collective labour. There was time in the pool to cool off and indigenous art activities, which were enjoyed by all.

Our thanks to the teachers and leaders for their support. These programs would not be possible without the dedication of staff, who take time away from their families to support these programs.

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Year 8 EXEAT The final EXEAT program of the year was held this term, with the Year 8 cohort embarking on a trip to Halls Gap in the Grampians. The cohort was divided into two camps, each lasting four days, across two weeks. The beautiful Tandara provided the accommodation for the program.

Nestled in the foothills of Boronia Peak, this venue was an ideal starting point for their many activities.

Apart from the hike to the spectacular Boronia Peak, which offers 360-degree views, the groups enjoyed climbing at Delly’s, canoeing on Lake Bellfield, and testing their limits on the high ropes course at Tandara. The groups also participated in community service activities in the Halls Gap area.

The weather was variable across the two weeks, with some wet days. However, it did not dampen the enthusiasm of the groups.

We express our gratitude to the leaders and teachers who supported the activities across the two weeks.

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SchoolTV Special Report: Respectful Relationships

Fostering a nurturing environment of respectful relationships within your family holds the key to not only harmonious living, but also improved academic outcomes for your children. As parents and caregivers, embracing the art of teaching children about respect at a young age sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy interactions and empathetic understanding. It will help cultivate a positive environment where communication flourishes, conflicts are resolved constructively, and bonds are fortified.

Teaching children to respect themselves and others will open up avenues for both personal growth and academic achievement. Fostering an environment where respect is not just a word, but a practiced behaviour, will empower young people with essential life skills. Effective communication, active listening, and the art of compromise, will provide your child with a solid foundation that will transcend family interactions and help them collaborate effectively with peers, teachers and the broader community.

Equipping children with an understanding of healthy versus unhealthy relationships is an important aspect of their development. It will guide them to make informed choices, foster positive connections, and set boundaries that contribute to their emotional wellbeing. Understanding the nuances between healthy and unhealthy relationships provides children with the essential tools to navigate their social world, build self-esteem, and cultivate meaningful relationships.

In this edition of SchoolTV, learn how to empower young people in healthy interactions to embrace differences and forge connections that honour their self-worth. We hope you take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback.

If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Emma Grant Dean of Wellbeing and Culture

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Issue#7 | 2023