Lux Mea July 2019

JULY 2019

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

STANDING UP FOR CHANGE

ON TOP OF THE WORLD

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Contents 3

From the Principal

4

Class of 2018 VCE Reflections

6

Cooerwull Service Awards

7

In Memorium

8

From the School Captains

9

Standing Tall

10

Heart of Australia

11

Year 9 Project

12

Nepal Service Trip

13

Year 7 and 8 Camps

14

Science News

15

STEM in the classroom

16

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

17

Music Report

18

Sport News

20

Learning to Belong

20

Hanging out with our Buddies

22

Year 6 Trip to Canberra

23

Open Day

24

Introducing Dr Matthew Bach

25

Staff Profiles

26

Our Associations

26

Our Alumni

Cover: Ava Grace (Year 1), Ms Bron Dandie and Zoe (Year 1) read a book together during a quiet moment on Open Day. Back: Georgia (Year 10), Zoe (Year 10) and Lily (Year 12) cheer on Locksley at the House Swimming Carnival

EDITOR Editor: Carolyn Exton Designer: Justin Ebbels, Air Drawn Industries Director of Communications and Marketing: Melanie Dow If you wish to submit information for Lux Mea or update your details, please send your contributions to: media@ivanhoegirls.vic.edu.au

PUBLISHED BY Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School 123 Marshall Street Ivanhoe 3079 T: +61 3 9490 6222 E: iggs@ivanhoegirls.vic.edu.au

www.ivanhoegirls.vic.edu.au CONNECT WITH US

Print Post Approved 100007945 ABN 77 004 098 748 CRICOS: 00974A/018621A

2

I

Lux Mea

“We value an education that challenges and connects, leading to powerful and progressive thinking.”

Dr Deborah Priest

Forging Community Connections At Ivanhoe Girls’ we care as much about the wellbeing and character development of our students as we do about them achieving their academic potential. For a student to be ready to take on an independent life beyond school, to make wise decisions about their future and to have self-confidence and resilience, an education must be much more than a focus on academic performance alone.

Thanks to the Pastoral Care framework at Ivanhoe Girls' where each student is known and accepted as an individual, all students are given the opportunity to discover what drives them. Through the School’s focus on service and leadership, our students are empowered to develop meaningful relationships across the whole school community and to look to these values to drive change in the world through community service initiatives, social justice and charitable causes.

The disposition to serve our community is nurtured in a range of activities that students across the whole school, from the ELC through to Year 12, are involved with. For example: • Home visits with the ELC. For our youngest students, the importance of strong community connections cannot be overemphasised. The ELC team, led by Bernadette Gioia, are strengthening these vital bonds by visiting students in their home environment, and establishing meaningful connections between family and teacher • Westgarth Buddies for students in Year 4.

Through regular visits and shared activities with a “buddy”, students establish meaningful connections and develop friendships with community elders at the Westgarth Baptist Church • On The Move: Walking in the Shoes of Refugees is a pastoral immersive learning experience that invites Year 8 students to follow a refugee family on their journey to safety. The students develop team building, creative and critical thinking skills as well as a greater empathy, understanding and empathy for refugees around the world • Stand for Something Social Service Projects for students in Years 8 to 12. Students choose an external charity or community group to investigate and support. Students develop a belief in their ability to create social change, while educating others around specific social issues. They practice courage, empathy and ethical action

• Familiar Faces is an initiative of the Year 12 Prefects to get to know girls across all year levels. This involves whole-school lunchtime activities such as dodgeball games in the gymnasium and an “amazing race.” It’s wonderful to see our students developing skills in leadership and social awareness while demonstrating the values of belonging, recognition, and integration.

Ivanhoe Girls’ has a proud tradition of graduating young women who go on to serve the community in many and varied ways. Once again this year, the outstanding community work of a number of our former students and community members was acknowledged in the 2019 Australia Day Honours. We are proud to congratulate: • Diane Falconer OAM – For service to the community through charitable organisations (Class of 1953) • Stephanie Woollard OAM – For service to the international community through humanitarian aid (Class of 2002) • Dr Christine Durham OAM (former Ivanhoe Girls’ Staff member) – For service to education.

At Ivanhoe Girls’, we value an education that challenges and connects, leading to powerful and progressive thinking. But we also value the curiosity, authenticity and commitment to service, such as these three remarkable women have ably demonstrated in their lives since leaving the Ivanhoe Girls’ community.

We hope that by empowering all students to develop meaningful relationships and community connections, our students will become resilient, compassionate and respectful young women who go on to serve the community through their professional life or through their ongoing involvement in community service and volunteering.

Dr Deborah Priest Principal

Strategic Plan Update Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School looks to the future with great optimism.

Throughout 2018 we identified our strengths as a leading independent girls’ school and opportunities for ongoing school improvement into the future. A result of this detailed investigation is a new set of Strategic Goals that will lead our school into the next decade and beyond.

In our Strategic Plan we have identified five key strategies that we believe are fundamental for us to pursue as we support students to develop the knowledge, skills, dispositions and values that they will need to thrive, be successful and happy while at school and in their future lives. Hence, Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School will focus its planning, leadership and resources on five major strategies for continuous School improvement.

We invite you to read more about our 2019-2024 Strategic Plan in the booklet included with this edition of Lux Mea.

Lux Mea

I

3

VCE RESULTS

Class of 2018 Tertiary Institutions Selected by the Class at 2018

100

In 2018 % of Year 12 students who applied for a course received a placement offer.

30%

University of Melbourne

20%

Monash University

18%

La Trobe University

17%

RMIT University

5%

Australian Catholic University

3%

Victoria University

2%

Deakin University

2%

Box Hill Institute

1%

Elly Lukas Beauty Therapy College

1%

Deakin College

1%

Swinburne University of Technology

Congratulations to all students from the Class of 2018 for their outstanding VCE results and tertiary offers.

As in previous years, our Year 12 students have performed strongly and achieved excellent results, with 89% receiving a place in their first or second preference course, 94% receiving a place in a course of their first three choices and 100% of students who applied for a course receiving an offer.

Our students have chosen courses that suit their interests in 63 different fields of study, including animation and interactive media, business/accounting, design, financial planning and accountancy, law and biomedicine. Vocational pathways chosen by the Class of 2018 include make-up, nursing and youth work.

The Class of 2018 also saw a large number of students choosing courses in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) with 58% of the courses selected being STEAM-based. Just over one fifth of our students have chosen to study a course based in Medicine, Biomedicine, Nursing or Health.

Special mention must go to our Dux, Hanyi, who was offered a place at Monash University to study Medicine under a Monash Scholarship for outstanding achievement, and Proxime Assessit, Ella, who was offered a place to study Fine Arts at Monash University. School Captain Johanna and Vice-Captain Olympia have both been offered places at The University of Melbourne, in Science and Arts respectively.

4

I

Lux Mea

Premier’s VCE Awards 2019 Ella: Psychology (Teacher: Ms Julia Robertson) and Art (Teacher: Mr Deryck Greenwood) Emma: Art (Teacher: Mr Deryck Greenwood)

Congratulations Dasha: selected to the Australian National Academy of Music Jayde: offered a Basketball Scholarship to California, USA Maya: offered a place at the University of Amsterdam

Distributions of ATAR Scores 2018

Ivanhoe Girls’ 50 State/National 40

Hanyi, Hailey and Estelle: received offers to study Medicine at Monash University

30

Kayley and Raisa: received offers to study Fine Arts (Visual Art) at The University of Melbourne

20

Stephanie: received a La Trobe Vice Chancellor’s Excellence Scholarship Ella, Zuer (Suri) and Tahlia: received offers to study Fine Arts at Monash University Lili: received a Women in Engineering Scholarship at Monash University.

61%

60

39%

21%

11%

10 6%

20%

10% 5%

0

1%

2%

ABOVE

99

98

95

90

80

Ella

VCE Reflections Emma The best part of VCE at Ivanhoe Girls’ was the constant support of both teachers and peers. Year 12 was quite daunting (especially academically) but I always felt like I could ask for and receive extra support from my teachers when I needed it. My classmates were always willing to exchange ideas, and kept me feeling positive even in stressful times! I am very thankful for my teachers and friends.

At Ivanhoe Girls’ I was able to study smaller subjects, like Global Politics, which aren’t offered at most schools. Studying Global Politics allowed me to recognise my own interest in international relations, which I’m now keen on pursuing in the future. I also appreciated the amazing Art Department at Ivanhoe Girls’ which encouraged me to recognise the value in creativity.

My advice to future Year 12 students would be to always maintain a balance between work and fun. Studying constantly will do more harm than good, and it’s so important to maintain hobbies and relationships with friends and family throughout the final year of school!

Natalie The highlight of my VCE experience at Ivanhoe Girls’ was definitely being taught by such a professional, passionate and supportive teaching staff. They provided me with their time, support and passion for their subject and encouraged me to work to the best of my abilities and achieve my full potential.

I truly believe that my time at Ivanhoe Girls’ has shaped me into becoming a more resilient, diligent and assertive young person, ready to tackle whatever challenge is thrown my way - attributes that are essential for a future lawyer! Furthermore, through

experiencing countless opportunities offered by the School such as debating, I have pushed myself out of my comfort zone and in doing so tested my capabilities and developed a strong confidence in myself.

As such I am no longer scared to potentially speak in a court of law someday!

After taking a gap year I plan to study a double degree in Law/Arts at Monash University in 2020, which has been my dream ever since I was young, and hopefully commence an internship at a law firm alongside my degree.

Hanyi The teachers at Ivanhoe Girls’ have a genuine love for teaching, a passion that ignites within students a desire to learn and explore, something that is more important than simply striving for a good ATAR result. Studying in an environment that values learning itself, one that pushes students to develop their interests even in their VCE years is what I found to be most unique about studying at Ivanhoe Girls’.

Being a part of the Ivanhoe Girls’ family for the last eight years, I’ve learned to be more outgoing, to step outside of my comfort zone, take on new opportunities, and most importantly, to respect and value those around me. Much of this is attributed to the wonderful Class of 2018 who I’ve had the privilege of sharing my high school experience with. At Ivanhoe Girls’ there was never a need to pretend, to be someone who you weren’t just to be ‘popular’. And it was the loving atmosphere, the genuine kindness of these girls who have helped shape the person I wish to be in the future: not just an average student, but an individual who dares to “speak for herself”, an individual who’ll greet strangers with a smile, and someone who others will be comfortable coming to for support in times of adversity.

The best part of studying VCE at Ivanhoe Girls' was the support and encouragement from both the teachers and the other students in my year level. I really appreciated the effort the teachers put in to make the lessons interesting and fun as well as the broad range of subjects I could take.

The wonderful fun I had studying both Visual Communication Art and Design and Visual Art in VCE as well as Art throughout my junior years shaped the path that I want to take in the future. The focus on experimenting with new things, the freedom within the subjects and the lovely teachers prompted me to want to continue on with art after school.

I think it is important to make sure that your studies don’t consume your life. Allow yourself time to see your friends, keep up your hobbies, prioritise sleep and don’t feel guilty that you aren’t spending the time studying when you do! Make sure to stay on top of the work throughout the year and pick subjects that you have a genuine interest in and will enjoy, despite how they may scale.

Betty Outside of a friendly, familiar cohort, the best part about studying at Ivanhoe Girls’ was definitely the support of my teachers. You basically have six private tutors, because teachers are so willing to take time out of their schedule and look at students holistically. I was actually going to drop Studio Arts at one point, which is kind of funny now, but my subject teacher and tutors helped me regain my muchneeded confidence, and it ended up being my best subject! Self-assurance is arguably just as important as the time put into study, and the community at Ivanhoe Girls’ promotes both.

Ivanhoe Girls’ has taught me that there’s no need to be ashamed of studying humanities.

You’re not any lesser just because you don’t take Maths Methods, or Chemistry, and the people around you will help you recognise that. Scaling is nice, but it isn’t indicative of the effort that goes into a folio, or playing an instrument, and the School realises this.

So, it’s solidified my path in arts and design, guilt-free! __

Lux Mea

I

5

OUR ASSOCIATIONS 2

5

6

3

7

LE

B R AT

I G

YE A RS

11

I

10

N

There were a number of particularly significant award recipients including Emily Hui (Staff) and Susan Kent (IGOGA) for their 35 Year Service Award, Mary Connellan (Staff) for her 30 Year Service Award and Rachel Connor (IGOGA) for her 25 Year Service Award.

B R AT

G

It was a special evening for all recipients as they accepted their awards from Chair of the School Board, Mrs Karen Frost and Principal, Dr Deborah Priest, in front of family, friends and colleagues.

LE

N

Earlier this year, around 180 members of the School community joined us in celebrating the 2019 Cooerwull Service Award recipients, in recognition of their valuable contribution to Ivanhoe Girls’.

9

CE

8

Cooerwull Service Awards

4

CE

1

YE A RS

12

13

15

14

Thank you to all members of the School community who joined us in celebrating this very special occasion.

Rachael Rosedale President, Cooerwull Inc.

[1] Margaret Long, Norma Marsh and Heather Low (Dec.) [2] Kerrie Haynes and Anthony Hore [3] Mia Francesconi and Terry Lawler [4] Mary Skarpetis, Joanna Hadjiantonakis and Maria Kanellos [5] Mary Davies and Emily Hui [6] Susan Kent and Karen Frost [7] Shanelle Spencer, Alana Ryan and Katrina Benson [8] Mary Connellan [9] Rachel Connor [10] Anne Nelson-Page and Judy Clark (Dec.) [11] Rvd Stephen May and Rachael Rosedale [12] Laura Ross and Sylvia Gilbert [13] Judy Weston, Antoinette Gnoato, Janine Amoddio and Deborah Larmer [14] Jan Leather, Suzanne Bluck and Mary Bourke [15] Rick Tudor, Lucinda Fitzmaurice, Nicholas O'Connor and Noni Fitzmaurice

6

I

Lux Mea

In Memorium contributed over 60 years of service across a range of School Associations including a large number of these years on the Ivanhoe Girls’ Old Grammarians Association (IGOGA) committee. In recent years, Heather attempted to “retire” on several occasions, but was always enthusiastically encouraged to stay on – for just one more year.

Vale Heather Low (née Weaven, Class of 1939) 11 October 1921 – 13 April 2019 The School family recently farewelled Heather Low, Life Governor, past Board Member (1969-1976), Cooerwull Member, Ivanhoe Girls’ Old Grammarians Association Life Member and past student (Class of 1939, School Captain), past staff member (19431945) and past parent.

Heather was a much loved and respected member of our School community having

The wealth of her knowledge of the School and the people in it over the years, was incredible and something we highly valued.

Her passion to stay engaged and to continue to contribute was very inspiring. Importantly, Heather for many years has presented the School Captain badges to our student leaders in both our Senior and Junior School including earlier this year. The School Captain’s badge has been known in recent years as the “Heather Low Captain’s badge”.

Heather’s passing is a great loss to our School and the wider community. She was a strong advocate for Ivanhoe Girls’, girls’ education and in her professional career was a Kindergarten teacher and had a passion for Music.

In 1983, Heather was awarded a prestigious Life Governorship by the School and in 2018 she was presented with a 60 Year Cooerwull Service Award.

Heather had a deep love of the School and her service over so many years is truly incredible and something I don’t think will ever be matched.

Our thoughts and prayers go to Heather’s family – her brother, Ron, and children Alison (Class of 1968), Meg (Class of 1972), Kirsty (Class of 1973), Fiona (Class of 1975), Charles and extended family, and to all in our school family who knew and loved Heather.

She is irreplaceable and will be so sadly missed.

Karen Frost Chair of the Board

Vale Judy Clark 13 April 1951 – 15 March 2019 The School community recently bid farewell to a much loved member of our school family, Judy Clark. Judy’s involvement with the School commenced as a parent, when her daughter Mia Treloar (nee Clark, Class of 2001) started at the School in Prep. This commenced over 25 years of dedicated service to our school.

Judy was a member of the Art and Craft Committee from 1993 – 2007 and President from 1999-2004. As part of this role Judy was very successful in building connections in the broader community and raising much appreciated funds for our school.

She has been a member of the School Board of Directors since 1995, including a member of the Board Liaison Committee from 1994 and Chairing this Committee from 1996 – 2007. Judy was also a member of the Cooerwull Inc. Committee since 1998 and was the Convenor of the Centenary Committee from 1998-2003.

In 2015, Judy was awarded a 25 Year Cooerwull Service Award and in 2016 was awarded a prestigious Life Governorship by the School.

Aside from these formal contributions, Judy was an avid and enthusiastic supporter of our school in so many ways. She consistently attended school events and functions, in particular enjoying the performing arts and musical performances, along with a wide range of social events on our school calendar.

Judy was a beloved friend and supporter of many of the School staff and Association members. She took a keen interest in the development of our students, offering support at Careers Nights and in the Cooerwull Mentoring Program for past students of the School.

In recent years, Judy was very proud that her granddaughter Matilda commenced as a student in our ELC, continuing the Clark family’s long association with our school.

Judy had an energy, vibrancy, passion and light that will be very sadly missed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Judy’s husband George, son Andrew and his partner Shonah, daughter Mia (Class of 2001), son in law James and four loving grandchildren.

Karen Frost Chair of the Board

Lux Mea

I

7

SCHOOL LEADERS

1

From the 2019

School Captains As school leaders, we are constantly asked: What do you love about Ivanhoe Girls’? Honestly, we do not find it hard to answer this question. The School provides broad and extensive opportunities, ranging from overseas trips to House activities to clubs and groups, helping students to find their passion. A supportive environment is fostered where student voice and initiative is valued and encouraged while giving the chance for young women to find their feet through leadership and service both within the School and wider community.

My favourite event by far each year has always been the House Performing Arts carnival; a completely student run event where each House has the opportunity to put on a drama, music and dance piece for the entire school. Throughout the event, it is truly amazing to hear the amount of support that all the students have for each other when they perform. It is also a chance for students to showcase their diverse skills, being those not typically displayed in the classroom, and to have fun. Through my platform as a leader this year, I would love to bring out these experiences in more activities and events throughout the year.

Georgia School Captain

I vividly remember walking into my first Senior Concert Band rehearsal as a Year 7.

I was one of the youngest there and felt absolutely terrified to be playing music alongside so many older girls. However, I soon realised that I had nothing to fear. The band welcomed me, challenged me and made me feel like I’d finally found my place, alongside people who were passionate about the same things as me. I think this experience summarises my time at Ivanhoe Girls’. In the last five years, I’ve become part of a group of like-minded girls who I can learn alongside – all the while challenging myself and having fun.

As captains of the school, we aim to pass on the incredible values, lessons and experiences that Ivanhoe Girls’ has gifted to us over our time here. We want to foster a space where students are empowered, united and unafraid to find out and do what they love. We are excited to see what the year will bring.

Senior School Leaders Georgia School Captain Hannah School Vice Captain Charlotte Captain of Ashby Lily Captain of Locksley Olivia Captain of Oswald Charlotte Captain of Rotherwood Charlotte Captain of Rowena Aliya Captain of York Anastasia Captain of Drama Sara Captain of Music Amy Captain of Sport Linh Captain of Debating Imogene Social Service Prefect Stacy SRC President Mel Global Liaison Prefect Erica Global Liaison Prefect Jasmine Year Level Liaison Prefect Rhiannon Year Level Liaison Prefect Olivia Year Level Liaison Prefect Janel Year Level Liaison Prefect Ella Year Level Liaison Prefect Sophia Year Level Liaison Prefect

Hannah School Vice-Captain

2

3

[1] Year 12 [1]Leaders Year 12 pictured Leaders pictured with Principal with Principal Dr Deborah Dr Deborah Priest and Priest Deputy andPrincipal Deputy Principal and Head and of Senior Head ofSchool, SeniorDr School, Matthew Dr Matthew Bach. [2]Bach L-R: Kerrie Haynes, [2] L-R:Georgia Kerrie Haynes, Martin, Georgia, Heather Low, Heather Hannah Low Price.

(Dec.) and [3] Georgia HannahMartin [3] Georgia and Hannah and Hannah Price.

8

I

Lux Mea

Standing Tall Every year, the Year 12 Leadership Team choose a theme to inspire and motivate the School community. In 2019, they have chosen ‘One Team.

Many Dreams.’ It’s a call to action, a pledge to fight for something about which, as individuals, they’re passionate.

Eventually the number of working groups was whittled down to 25, each spanning multiple year levels. “It’s an amazing opportunity to do inter-year level bonding with a group of people who are as passionate about something as you are,” says Erica. Hannah agrees. “I found it so empowering to be in a room with a whole bunch of other girls who I knew were passionate about a particular issue,” she says.

Imogene agrees. “With so many groups there’s a high chance that people will find something they are really truly passionate about,” she says. “I hope it will continue on and have a lasting effect and maybe people will want to do it again in future years.”

In a serendipitous coincidence, the Student Representative Council (SRC) social service project this year is ‘Stand for Something’.

Together, the SRC and the Prefects are hoping to inspire the Senior School to find their passion and fight for change.

This year’s theme has been inspired by the success of last’s year’s Year 11 Passion Projects, an SRC initiative which encouraged students to get behind a cause, with an emphasis on raising awareness. “We looked at what we were passionate about rather than baking cakes or raising money,” explains Georgia.

This year, the now Year 12s have expanded the concept across the School. “Each group contains students from Years 8 to 12, and there’s 25 different groups all focusing on different issues,” explains Imogene.

“It means that everyone is working towards something they’re interested in,” adds Hannah. Issues range from Climate Action to Plastic Pollution, Education Access, Cancer Research and advocating for Access to Period Products.

“It allows for a whole range of issues to be in the spotlight, and be brought to the attention of people who may not be aware of those

topics,” explains Olivia, who is advocating for more Physical Activity for young people.

“Plus everyone is always more motivated to do something if they want to do it,” explains Georgia. “Then they want to take the time to look into the issue and do something that actually creates real change.”

So how did the Year 12s come up with such a diverse range of causes to support?

In the first of a series of inter-year level sessions in the House groups, students were encouraged to stand up in front of a small group and declare what they were passionate about.

Initially, it didn’t go quite according to plan.

“At first the girls were really quiet and it was hard to get them to speak up,” explains Georgia. Linh agrees. “There were lots of younger kids who were like, ‘I don’t know what I’m passionate about’, or ‘I don’t know what I’m meant to do,’” she says.

“But when the Year 9s, 10s and 11s went up and talked about what they were passionate about, you could see the change in the younger girls. And then they got up to speak and it was incredible to see the growth in confidence.”

The girls also hope the student-driven nature of the initiative will encourage participation.

“I think having student leaders will mean more students will be empowered to speak up,” explains Erica.

“Because it’s so collaborative and everyone has an equal voice in those groups, if I were a younger student I’d feel comfortable speaking up in that environment,” suggests Imogene.

It’s an environment that the girls hope will foster participation and leadership. “It’s really nice to see the younger students inspired by the older students,” says Georgia.

So apart from raising awareness of their individual causes, what do the girls want to achieve this year? For Georgia, the most important thing is that this is about uniting the School. “It’s important to know we can achieve our dreams if we all work together.”

Hannah hopes it will have a lasting effect and encourage activism outside of school.

“Hopefully, once you realise what you are capable of on a small scale, you’ll be inspired to make a larger impact in the future,” she says. __

Lux Mea

I

9

SENIOR SCHOOL

Heart of Australia In a unique cultural immersion into Central Australia, the Heart of Australia camp was a wonderful opportunity for city kids to learn more about Indigenous communities living in the remarkable landscape of outback Australia.

10

From Yulara a township just 20km from Uluru, the group of 18 students from Years 10-12 travelled 200kms west to Docker River in the Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara Homelands (8km from the WA border).

Leaving Docker River and heading into the desert, the group travelled south east along ancient songlines and learnt about Tjukurpa (creation, law and belief) from Anangu elders, the traditional owners of the lands.

Here, students spent time helping out in local schools and visiting a local Aged Care Centre. Our girls enjoyed the opportunity to meet the Elders who live there, and spent the time listening to their stories and learning songs and traditional dances. It was also a unique opportunity to buy indigenous artworks, and learn about the symbolism in the paintings and carvings from the artists themselves.

This very memorable journey was a unique opportunity for students to become aware of the complexity and diversity of traditional indigenous culture. The journey also challenged their understanding of contemporary Aboriginal Australia and promoted a deep empathy through their shared experiences with the Anangu people.

I

Lux Mea

Andre Chadzynski and Jane Robertson Tour Leaders

Goals at School My goal is to perform a stand-up comedy routine to the rest of the Trek students.

I chose this because I thought it was reasonably unique, forces me to step outside my comfort zone, and was entertaining to others. Some challenges currently facing me are coming up with relevant, funny and relatable stories to link together in order to create a routine. To overcome this challenge, I am watching other stand-up comedians and brainstorming any topics that come to mind then filtering through these ideas. The hard part about this is being inspired without copying aspects of their routines. Although I have never prepared or performed stand-up comedy, I am enjoying the research process and anxiously although excitedly look forward to performing.

Year 9 Project

A Trek into the Unknown Trek is a new initiative in Year 9 at Ivanhoe Girls’, aimed at developing hands-on skills, enhancing teamwork and pushing students outside their comfort zones. They must take on new challenges and see that trial and error are essential to success.

The four ‘cornerstones’ of the subject are Knowing, Thinking, Connecting and Creating. These are used as ways of developing an interesting and interactive curriculum that empowers the students to really push themselves and see that skills are transferable. These cornerstones focus on the important parts of any learning journey – a symbolic trek. At the end of the subject, our Year 9 girls should be able to confidently declare “I can” followed by a number of new skills they did not have before.

The first aspect students have undertaken is ‘24’ a personal challenge to achieve a ‘bucket list’ item that students nominate.

It is called ‘24’ as students have 24 hours to achieve their goal – 12 hours in class time and 12 hours outside of class. It’s designed for students to see what they can achieve when they work towards a specific goal in a tight timeframe.

The second aspect is our ‘Group Challenges’. The biggest of these was the ‘Wacky Racers’ project, where teams researched and designed their own ‘Wacky

Racer’ billy cart using recycled materials.

Their designs were planned, drawn, redesigned and tested, culminating in a time-trial test on a course that ran through the middle of the School. They had spent hours drilling, sawing and nailing them together to get the wheels attached and running smoothly. The course was tight, requiring good steering and a consideration of braking. It was wonderful to see the racers on the course, and the pride the girls took in their inventive carts. The next phase of the subject sees them engage with a community project. We look forward to seeing how our girls make a difference as they connect with the community.

Rob Fuller Head of Curriculum Years 7-9

Someone who inspired me was Nath Valvo.

I watched his routines and saw how stand up was more than a story, and how essential delivery and body movement is. My definition of success in this project is just to make people laugh when I am performing, and for my routine to be entertaining.

Zoe Year 9

I have a passion for swimming so I set my goals specifically around it so I can work on it at school and at home.

My goal is to end up representing Australia or the highest level I can reach in competitive swimming.

I am able to work on this goal at school by using the school pool once a fortnight to swim my own sets and work on the things I need to work on to make my swimming better. I’m also able to work on it at home because I will train with my own swim coach which will challenge me and make me a better swimmer. I’ve made progress on this goal by using past results to set goal times that I want to swim for my individual events.

I also recently competed at the Australian Age Swimming Championships which gave me experience at a national level and it made me want to work harder to get to my goals.

I’ve also recently switched coaches which will hopefully help me push harder and lower my times to try and meet my goals.

Everyone has really enjoyed Trek this semester and especially this project which has pushed them outside their comfort zone and helped them strive to achieve what they want to achieve.

Emilia Year 9

Lux Mea

I

11

SENIOR SCHOOL

Nepal Service Trip

On Top of the World The Ivanhoe Girls’ Service Trip to Nepal was an amazing experience that will stay with us all forever. The 10-day trip was spent in Kathmandu and the town of Bandipur, in a combination of service and tourism.

The other half the trip was spent in Bandipur.

This country town is a five-hour bus trip from Kathmandu and was truly stunning. We spent time at the local schools teaching English.

It was really inspiring. The students attended the high school from 6.00am – 9.00am in the morning then worked on their farms for the rest of the day. They were enthusiastic learners and we taught them about Australian animals and afterwards, they were keen to practise their English on us.

While in Bandipur we went on a day hike to a town called Ramkot. This was a rural town, self-sustainable and full of livestock. This was yet another style of life for the Nepali people.

Visiting Hindu Temples and Buddhist Stupas was a great way for us to explore the culture and gain a better understanding of the main Nepali religions. We saw Kumari, the living Goddess and received blessings from the religious men. Some of these religious sites were impacted by the earthquakes in 2015, and it was heartbreaking to see the beautiful architecture destroyed and not yet rebuilt.

The history of these areas was fascinating and our tour guide was always enthusiastic to share all he knew. While in Kathmandu we visited the Fred Hollows Foundation, which is an eye hospital established by an Australian doctor, that works to provide free or affordable eye care for everyone.

We also spent time at Seven Women, a fantastic organisation set up by Ivanhoe Girls’ Alumni, Stephanie Woollard OAM (Class of 2002), which helps empower marginalised

Nepali women through education and employment opportunities. This is done through running courses in literacy, numeracy, computer skills and textiles. Seven Women employ women to make items to sell, and run classes for tourists in felt work and cooking traditional Nepalese dishes. This money goes towards empowering the Nepali women. The organisation has educated, trained and employed 5,000 women and it was life changing to see the impact this has on their lives and their communities.

We enjoyed a wonderful interaction with the organisation and the local women. We taught them English and computer skills, and in turn were taught craft and cooking. They all had a story to share and were keen to chat, and made us feel so welcome in their country, through the amazing food, the smiles and the words of gratitude.

The people in Nepal were all lovely.

The hospitality was amazing, with hotel staff teaching us traditional dances and feeding us amazing Nepali food. The locals were just as welcoming, smiling and saying hello as we walked past, sharing their dreams and talents and showed true appreciation for us visiting Nepal.

The people were lovely but so was the country itself. From the mountain ranges that filled the horizons to the colourful buildings and the prayer flags that were on every street and covered the temples; everything about Nepal was beautiful.

It was a lifechanging experience and we are all so glad to be given such a wonderful opportunity as this. Thank you to all the teachers who accompanied us on our incredible journey, and made this experience possible for us.

Charlotte Year 12

[1] Year 12 Leaders pictured with Principal Dr Deborah Priest and Deputy Principal and Head of Senior School, Dr Matthew Bach. [2] L-R: Kerrie Haynes, Georgia Martin, Heather Low, Hannah Price. [3] Georgia Martin and Hannah Price.

12

I

Lux Mea

Valley Homestead, Ovens

Year 7 Camp

The students enjoyed a range of activities which challenged them to overcome their fears and build strong bonds.

Goulbourn River, Eildon

Year 8 Outdoor Education Camp By building memories together, playing games, supporting each other, and sharing stories around a campfire, the students have strengthened the bonds of friendship that will carry them through this year and beyond.

Lux Mea

I

13

SCIENCE NEWS

National Youth Science Forum

For Year 12 students with a passion for science and technology, the National Youth Science Forum is an exciting opportunity to take a deep dive into some of the leading scientific institutions in Australia.

After an extensive selection process, two of the School’s outstanding science students were offered the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend the Conference.

NYSF Canberra

NYSF Brisbane

I attended the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) in Canberra. I spent a day at Parliament House as part of the NYSF Opening Ceremony and debated the merits of nuclear energy. I played with lasers at ANU’s Department of Physics and Engineering, had a scavenger hunt in CSIRO’s Black Mountain facility and at the Therapeutic Goods Administration, I exploded medical grade gloves to test their durability.

I attended the NYSF in Brisbane. I visited the University of Queensland’s Centre of Hypersonics and had a closer look at the shock tubes. I also had the opportunity to work with Engineers Without Borders, visited the Queensland Eye Institute and the Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation where they are 3D printing skin and bone frames to help patients recover from traumatic injuries that would normally result in amputation.

In ANU’s College of Engineering and Computer Science, I created hydrogels for use in electron microscopes and was introduced to quantum physics at the Mt Stromlo Observatory. One of the definite highlights of my session was a keynote address by Dr Megan Clark, the Head of the Australian Space Agency, at a dinner in the Australian National Museum.

One of the highlights for me was visiting Air Services’ Brisbane base, as they run 11% of the world’s airspace and the facility also contains the air traffic control tower for Brisbane airport and a variety of simulators for air traffic controllers in training that we got to play with.

Caitlin Year 12

Linh Year 12

All Aboard!

Innovation Station goes Express The Innovation Station is an amazing new addition to our school and I would highly recommend it to every student, either through the Robotics elective or by coming along to Coding Club.

Full of funky new technology, the innovation station has EV3 robots, Spheros, 3D printers, a virtual reality headset and a laser cutter.

Even the chairs have a fantastic tripod design. Robotics, which I am currently taking with Mr Zhuo, has been an immersive, challenging subject where you are forced to think for yourself and experiment with different ways to do things. The Innovation Station has enabled our class to have the space to set up a multitude of challenge scenarios which we previously couldn’t do in our old Science rooms. The set-up of the

14

I

Lux Mea

room has also changed the way the class interacts. The big tables mean that the lessons become more of a discussion rather than just Mr Zhuo teaching us. These tables also have a function that I have never seen before - they have whiteboards on them!

They are super neat. It’s so nice to be able to draw detailed coding steps and then rub away past failed attempts (there were so many, “sighs”).

This term in Robotics, we have been focusing on building EV3 robots (kind of like Lego) and coding the robot to complete a variety of challenges. It is a very touch-and-go subject,

full of trial and error which can keep you up at night thinking about how you and your teammate can build the longest robot which is still structurally sound enough that it won’t collapse once it starts moving. This subject is teaching me as much about building and coding robots as it is about perseverance and refusing to quit.

Mr Zhuo has also introduced some of us to a web design competition. This competition focuses on creating detailed web pages from scratch, with detailed modules to teach you the skills.

I’ve always had a passion for robotics and coding, and love learning new computer skills. I would highly recommend any current and new students to give coding and robotics a try, there is no downside!

Annie Year 10

1 2

STEM in the Classroom

Force of Nature The investigation into forces in Year 4 is a robust one where Science, Mathematics, Literacy and Digital Technologies come together in an action packed and exciting integrated curriculum.

Students have explored forces in terms of objects pushing and pulling other objects, compared and contrasted the effect of friction on different surfaces, and investigated the effect of forces on the behaviour of an object.

They have questioned and predicted outcomes, planned and conducted experiments, collected and analysed data, evaluated their outcomes and shared their observations and findings. Most importantly, they have been able to see connections between what they know, what they have learnt and how it applies in the real world.

Highlights of this unit of work have been the series of hands-on activities in classrooms, leading to a highly engaging incursion where the girls used robots to explore the relationship between friction and weight, the effect of speed over distance on stationary objects, how force is transferred through different mediums and the electronic components inside a robot, that rely on force to maintain stability.

3

Michelle Everest, Glyn Howitt and Melissa Nomes Junior School Teachers

Our incursion with Ms Howitt and Pete from Coding Edge was a superlative experience.

Over two days we have expanded our knowledge on all the types of forces. We worked with Sphero robots and placed them on different surfaces so we could investigate friction.

After that we worked out the average distance the Sphero had travelled on different surfaces.

We enjoyed working as a team with our best of friends and trying new things with them.

At the end of the two days we had a boost of confidence on our topic of forces.

Milly and Nidhi Year 4

[1] Jorja and Maia (Year 4) test out a pulley system on Rapunzel's tower {2] Evelyn (Year 3) programmed her MiRo to travel around a map of Australia [3] Audrey-Elle, Jyra and Ciara (Year 4) program the Sphero

Lux Mea

I

15

PERFORMING ARTS

Drama Report

A Midsummer Night’s Dream For many students, the School production is a big part of being an “Ivanhoe Girl”, and it’s always a hugely rewarding and enjoyable experience. This year’s production, A Midsummer Night’s Dream was no exception.

The cast worked incredibly hard throughout Term 1, with rehearsals on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, plus Sundays. These rehearsals provided a unique opportunity for students across all year levels to spend time together and to get to know each other. Without a doubt, during rehearsals of some of the hilarious comedic scenes we certainly got to know one another very well! While the complexity of Shakespeare’s language is definitely a bit of a speed bump, it has given us a chance to work as a team with Mrs Mutkins to develop a shared understanding of the play and all its little nuances.

As we approached performance season, we welcomed another wonderfully excited and committed group of girls: our crew!

Comprised of students from Years 7-12 who work under the direction of the stage managers, the crew experience all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes.

Whether it is costume, lighting, sound, or sets and props, each member of both cast and crew is integral to the running of a smooth show. We are so lucky to have a culture of unity and teamwork at Ivanhoe Girls’ that makes this possible!

Overall, this year’s production has given us many memories, and taught us skills in teamwork, creativity and critical thinking that we will undoubtedly use both on and off the stage. The incredible shows we put on each year are truly a testament to the hard work and dedication of each and every single student who is involved in Drama at Ivanhoe Girls’.

Anastasia Captain of Drama

[1] Year 12 Leaders pictured with Principal Dr Deborah Priest and Deputy Principal and Head of Senior School, Dr Matthew Bach. [2] L-R: Kerrie Haynes, Georgia Martin, Heather Low, Hannah Price. [3] Georgia Martin and Hannah Price.

16

I

Lux Mea

Music Report As a Year 12 student at Ivanhoe Girls’, I feel so privileged to have been involved in such a wonderful musical environment during my time at the School. The Music Department has been filled with many exciting events. There has been something for everyone!

1

2

The highlight of Term 1 for me, and I’m sure many other musicians would agree, was Music Camp. We shared a productive weekend of music making with friends away from the School environment.

As always, there were lots of laughs, games, movies, a trivia night hosted by the Year 12s, and even Zumba!

This term’s Twilight Concert provided an informal performance opportunity for students from Prep to Year 12. The girls were given the chance to show their talents to a friendly and supportive audience of teachers, friends and family.

3

The Music Staff Concert showcased our talented music staff featuring a range of repertoire. This year included a string arrangement of Deep Purple’s “Smoke On Water”, and the original version of “Jupiter”

by Holst for two pianos. We were reminded on this night of how lucky we are to have such fine music tutors and mentors at our school.

Some students were fortunate enough to perform, and receive one-on-one feedback, from Professor Leslie Howard, in a masterclass.

This was a once in a lifetime opportunity for these girls.

We finished the term with a music tour of Tasmania, where we brought the music of Ivanhoe Girls’ to this beautiful place. I am so excited about what’s to come in the rest of the year! Ivanhoe Girls’ is a great place for music.

Sara Captain of Music

[1] Music Captain, Sara and Prof. Leslie Howard [2] Choristers from the Past Student Choir perform at the Music Staff Concert [3] The choir performing at Port Arthur during the Music Tour of Tasmania

Lux Mea

I

17

SPORT 1

Spotlight on

Ava I recently competed for Ivanhoe Girls’ in the GSV Triathlon, where my team placed first in the Junior Division! I had heaps of fun working with my teammates, Quinn and Katherine. It was a great feeling to work together in a team and use each of our individual strengths to work towards a common goal.

I was also recently selected in the Victorian State Team for Track Cycling, where I travelled up to Brisbane with the team to compete at the Cycling Australia Junior Track Nationals. I was very happy with how I performed at Nationals, coming away with top 10 finishes in all my events and two PBs. Again, I enjoyed working with my teammates in the races. It’s always a great feeling when you’ve helped the team, or an individual from the team, achieve a great result.

My teammate, Indigo, also from Ivanhoe Girls’, won a silver medal. I was very happy for her as she was also representing Victoria. To represent my school and my state this year has been one of the best experiences for me, especially because of the teamwork and friendship aspects involved in both.

I would love to represent Ivanhoe Girls’ again in the future and continue to work in a team to achieve something great.

Ava Year 8

2

Spotlight on

Artistic Swimming Artistic Swimming, formally known as Synchronised Swimming, is one of the unique sporting opportunities on offer at Ivanhoe Girls’.

Coached by former Olympian, Ms Katrina Morrow, who is also Head of Counselling, students from Year 4 onwards are given the opportunity to come and try Artistic Swimming each Friday lunchtime. Over the years numbers have steadily increased and Ivanhoe Girls’ has been represented at Artistic Swimming competitions within Victoria and more recently, at State and National Championships.

Last year, Year 9 student Margo, who has been participating in the sport for four years, was selected to compete in Spain with the Australian Youth Team. When she realised that Artistic Swimming combined two of her favourite sports, gymnastics and swimming, Margo realised that she had found her passion. “Synchro was the PERFECT sport for me,” she says. Despite the hard work and training involved and moments of self-doubt, each time Margo swam she improved her skills and loved the sport more and more. ““All the components, emotion, performance, strength, flexibility

and passion is what keeps me swimming, working, and loving synchro so much”.

This year Margo has been selected to compete at the Fina Youth World Championships.

Over the past 12 months Ms Morrow has been joined by another former Australian National Team swimmer Jemma Singleton, who brings a wealth of knowledge and choreography skills to the advanced swimmers at Ivanhoe Girls’. At the beginner level, senior students volunteer their time each Friday to coach young swimmers, while gaining leadership points towards their School Colours. The development of Artistic Swimming at Ivanhoe Girls’ provides students with a rare opportunity to excel in a unique sport that can offer fantastic sporting and life opportunities.

Katrina Morrow Coach of Artistic Swimming [1] Year 12 Leaders pictured with Principal Dr Deborah Priest and Deputy Principal and Head of Senior School, Dr Matthew Bach. [2] L-R: Kerrie Haynes, Georgia Martin, Heather Low, Hannah Price. [3] Georgia Martin and Hannah Price.

18

I

Lux Mea

TRIATHLON

TRACK CYCLING

3

5

SWIMMING AND DIVING 4

6

9 7

8

10

11

12

[1] Margo in competition [2] Margo (Year 9) won silver in the Team Free 13-15 and Team Free Open awards at the Synchronised Swimming Championships [3] Olivia, Megan, Amy, Charlotte and Sonia (Year 12) at the GSV Sport Captain’s Breakfast [4] Olivia and Jorja (Year 4) at the Weet-bix Tryathlon [5] Junior School Swim Team at the Ivanhoe District Swimming Competition [6] Emma, Megan and Zoe (Year 10) came first in the Intermediate Team Enticer event at the GSV Triathlon [7] Lana (Year 4) at the Weet-bix Tryathlon [8] Quinn, Ava and Katherine (Year 8) came first in the Junior Beginner distance event in the GSV Triathlon [9] Indigo (Year 8) won silver at the Australian Nationals Track Cycling Competition [10] GSV Division 3 Diving Champions 2019 [11] Amy (Year 2) at the Weet-bix Tryathlon [12] The Swimming Team came second in GSV Division 2

Lux Mea

I

19

JUNIOR SCHOOL 1

Early Learning Centre

Learning to Belong Our main focus when the girls commence in the ELC is to instill in them a sense of belonging and security. Once they are settled and feeling happy, their confidence grows, relationships develop and learning can happen freely.

Social Service

Information sessions and short orientation visits help support the girls and indeed their families as they move from their home environment to the ELC. This year our Kinder team introduced a new component to our transition program. Home visits where the teachers visited the girls at home, were offered to all Kinder families to help facilitate a positive transition between home and the ELC. These were a special time when the girls could share aspects of their life with their educators. Some girls excitedly introduced their educators to family pets, showed off their favourite toys, played games and offered lunch.

The Westgarth Buddies program has been around for a long time.

The Year 4 girls become buddies with an older person who attends Westgarth Baptist Church on a Wednesday. These older people usually attend the church for respite, friendship and socialisation.

During their visit to the girls’ houses, the Kinder team had valuable conversations with families that have led to a smooth transition into the program. Discussions included their child’s interests, home routines and the parent’s goals. Working collaboratively with families to learn about their child paves the way for stronger outcomes. As the youngest learners in our school, it is so important that both families and children feel secure and confident in the ELC. These home visits were a very valuable opportunity for educators, parents and children to come together in a relaxed and familiar setting and begin to form a relationship.

Bernadette Gioia Director of the Early Learning Centre

Hanging out with our Buddies The buddies may be lonely, so they come to socialise with other adults. We want the older buddies to be happy so every year the Year 4 girls visit them each term to put a smile on their faces.

“My buddy’s name is Bernie. He is very funny and he loves to spend time with children. His favourite animal is a dog and he absolutely loves football because he used to play it. Bernie cannot wait to visit us at Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School this year to watch the dress rehearsal of Peter Pan.“

We think it’s important to make friends with the older people in our community because as you get older you may not have as many relatives or friends as you used to.

As students we learn about the lives of our Westgarth buddies and how they used to do things, the jobs they used to do and what life was like when they were younger. We get to socialise with lots of lovely people. We spend time and get to know them. It also teaches us how to make friends with people who are different to us.

The program is good for the “buddy” because sometimes they are lonely and might have a problem. They learn to feel comfortable talking to us, sharing stories, performing and creating things together. They know that we are happy talking to them.

2

Making friends with an older person can sometimes be sad because some of the stories they tell you are heart breaking.

As well as sad stories they also tell you some happy stories. You can also learn a lot from an older person. They have many skills and talents. It is always interesting hearing about their life when they were younger too.

Eva and Sommer Year 4

3

[1] Year 12 Leaders pictured with Principal Deborah Priest aand Deputy Principal andBernie Head to of make Seniorchatterboxes School, Dr Matthew Bach. [2] L-R: [1] MillyDr and Nidhi having chat [2] Katie teaches Kerrie Haynes, Martin, [3] Mannat having aGeorgia chat with their Heather buddy Low, Hannah Price. [3] Georgia Martin and Hannah Price.

20

I

Lux Mea

1

3

2

4

7 5

6

8

9

10

[1] Junior School House Captains at the House Cross Country Carnival [2] Year 2 experience life in the “olden days� during an excursion to Bundoora Park Farm [3] Year 2 students enjoy an excursion to Bundoora Park Farm [4] Ruby (Year 3) and Esther (Prep) bake cookies together [5] Junior School Gardeners [6] Buddies Audrey and Charlotte [7] Junior School Captains Abigail and Rami with Mrs Helen Moore at the Year 6 Leadership Assembly [8] Buddies Niki (Year 1) and Genevieve (Year 5) get to know each other [9] Sophie (Year 5) and Rayaan (Prep) [10] Year 2 experience old fashioned classrooms at Bundoora Park Farm

Lux Mea

I

21

JUNIOR SCHOOL 1

Year 6 Canberra Tour Last term the Year 6 students had a big adventure to Canberra. We had a jam-packed itinerary. Being away from home for five days was initially daunting for some girls, but once we got to Canberra and immersed ourselves into all the activities, we all settled in well.

We visited Parliament House, we took part in an Australian War Memorial Service, we had a night swim at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), we toured the National Art Gallery, Old Parliament House, went to the Royal Australian Mint to see how coins are made and enjoyed an evening at Questacon on our final night in Canberra.

The highlight for me was our visit to the War Memorial. Being part of the ceremony and having the opportunity to lay a wreath was a real honour. I was also glad I was able to put a poppy down for James McKenzie Anderson, a soldier from Ivanhoe, whose life I researched for a school project.

Another big highlight was the National Art Gallery. The artworks displayed there were amazing and the gallery tour guide was very passionate about speaking to us about the artworks. He talked in detail about the Blue

2

Polls abstract artwork and we all saw different shapes, imageries and stories within it. I found that to be most fascinating.

The final big highlight for me was meeting our Australian Governor-General, His Excellency General, the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC. Â He was very friendly and kind and answered all of our questions patiently. He always had a smile while talking to us.

3

So, in a nutshell, Canberra was amazing! It was more than what we thought it would be.

We learnt lots of things, we did lots of things but most of all we had lots of fun! Thank you to all the wonderful teachers who looked after us on our trip.

Abigail Junior School Captain

4

[1] Junior School Captains Rami and Abigail lay a wreath at the Australian War Memorial [2] Grace at the Speaker Box at Parliament House [3] Touring the Royal Australian Mint [4] Year 6 students were honoured to meet the Governor General, His Excellency the Hon. Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC, at Government House

22

I

Lux Mea

OPEN DAY

Thank you to all the members of our school community who joined staff and students to showcase the School on Open Day. The School was abuzz with lots of activities and musical performances showcasing Ivanhoe Girls’ to current and future families.

The new Innovation Station, Science labs and Hillsley Visual Arts and Hospitality Complex were all very busy on the day, along with many other areas across the School. Over 100 School Tours were provided by our student ambassadors across the ELC, Junior School and Senior School.

I would like to particularly thank both our students, who assisted with school tours and the myriad faculty and co-curricular activities and displays, and our dedicated staff for bringing everything to life to help us communicate to so many visitors the special place that is Ivanhoe Girls’.

Open Day is a time for our community to celebrate what we so love about our school and on that Saturday I was even prouder of being a part of this very special community.

Dr Deborah Priest Principal

Lux Mea

I

23

OUR STAFF

Introducing

Dr Matthew Bach The new Deputy Principal and Head of Senior School has big plans and a wealth of experience to bring to his role at Ivanhoe Girls’.

Teaching wasn’t the first career choice for Dr Matthew Bach. After dipping his toes in the tumultuous world of state politics, Dr Bach gradually came to the realisation that a career as a political advisor to a senior member of government simply wasn’t fulfilling enough. Despite the fascinating work, a great boss, and the chance to be a key player in crafting important social policies, he says “I really didn’t enjoy the work anywhere near as much as I thought I would.”

A stint in the UK working as a History and Politics teacher set him on a new path, and he returned home to complete his education degree. After six years at Carey Grammar in a variety of roles, Dr Bach was appointed as Deputy Principal/Head of Senior School at Ivanhoe Girls’ in 2018. The emphasis on Pastoral Care is what drew him to the role.

Ivanhoe Girls’ has long been recognised for its unique focus on pastoral care.

Small tutorial groups of 11-15 students with a teacher allocated to each group has had a “powerful cultural impact” on the School, explains Dr Bach.

“Pastoral care can be defined in so many ways,” he says. “And yet for me, the real heart of pastoral care is genuinely knowing each and every student. Only then can we tailor responses to best support them with where they’re at.”

“Clearly there’s been such a strong focus on building a really strong student culture that links to the way staff get along with students, instead of being punitive. We’re able to focus on things that are truly important.”

How does he feel about some of the challenges facing young women today?

“Our girls are not blindly optimistic and they understand that there are challenges, yet I get the sense that they know they can fight against anything that is unjust, utilising the skills they have developed at home and at school to make really meaningful and purposeful contributions beyond the School gate.”

“...the real heart of pastoral care is genuinely knowing each and every student.

Only then can we tailor responses to best support them with where they’re at.”

“There are so many examples here in our community of women who’ve been able to do fantastic work in a really broad range of different fields,” he explains. “I think the focus here at Ivanhoe Girls’ is on the true breadth of what success looks like. So many schools imply that success looks like one thing, a really high ATAR, for example, or a degree from a “sandstone” university.

But for a long period of time people here have been working to rewrite that narrative, in order to be able to provide all sorts of different kids with a justifiable sense of excitement for the future.” __

One of Dr Bach’s points of focus will be implementing a comprehensive framework right across the Senior School to link up the important pastoral insights from Student Services, the Chaplain, Careers Counselling, Student Counsellors and Individual Differences, within the existing pastoral care structure of the Year Level Co-ordinators and Centres. “I want to work really closely with everyone to ensure that we’re linking up what we know about students, to provide the best possible support in their learning.”

Coming from a co-educational environment, one of the biggest changes for Dr Bach when he first arrived at Ivanhoe Girls’ was the maturity of the students and the lack of discipline issues. “I was roaming around on a Friday trying to find the detention room,” he laughs. He was astonished to discover there wasn’t one.

[1] Year 12 Leaders pictured with Principal Dr Deborah Priest and Deputy Principal and Head of Senior School, Dr Matthew Bach. [2] L-R: Kerrie Haynes, Georgia Martin, Heather Low, Hannah Price. [3] Georgia Martin and Hannah Price.

24

I

Lux Mea

Julian Woolhouse

Bron Dandie

Mary Connellan

Senior School Geography Teacher and Outdoor Education Coordinator

Junior School Teacher

Archivist

Being a teacher is all I can ever remember wanting to be, except for maybe, a Wimbledon Champion. I have been teaching for over 30 years, in State and Independent schools, in girls’ schools, boys’ schools and co-educational schools. In some ways, it feels like I have only just commenced my teaching, possibly due to the various schools, differing roles and the range of year levels that I have taught. Or it might just be how quickly that time has flown by and how much teaching has changed and all I continue to learn from the girls and my peers every day.

After a tough introduction to teaching in Geelong, not too far from my home town of Birregurra, I was married in the summer holidays of 1972. In the new year, I was very fortunate to join Ivanhoe Girls’. My training had consisted of Bachelor of Science and Diploma of Education at Monash Uni at a time of exciting social upheaval.

The life journey that has led me to teaching is an international tale of adventure, intrigue and romance. About five years ago, I gave up my long-standing job as a Park Ranger, packed the essentials into a rucksack and travelled to the Caribbean. Whilst the appeal of palm-lined beaches and turquoise waters was real, I didn’t go just to drink rum from a hammock. I wanted to help people who hadn’t had the same opportunities as me.

My wife and I lived for one year in the capital of the Dominican Republic. The city of Santo Domingo was a noisy, polluted, chaotic and dangerous place to live, but at the same time it was vibrant, exciting and set to a constant soundtrack of lively Latin music. I worked in the National Botanic Gardens to improve the delivery of environmental education programs. This volunteer work put in me in a unique position to build friendships with locals on both sides of the rich/poor divide.

People living in poverty in the Dominican Republic were struggling financially, but they were also suffering from a poor education.

It became clear to me that my local friends who dreamt of a better job and a higher quality of life would be able to achieve this through education. Unfortunately, there were many socio-economic obstacles stopping people escaping the cycle of poverty.

Knowledge and understanding are essential to human wellbeing. It’s needed to maintain good health and nutrition, to care for the environment, and to promote peace and democracy.

I believe that education is the key to creating a world that is healthier, happier and more sustainable. The students of this school have amazing opportunities presented to them daily and they are great at making the most of these opportunities and recognising how fortunate they are. I want my Geography students to be empowered to make positive changes that will improve the lives of others.

I want my students of Outdoor Education to foster a love of nature and to care for the environments they are active in. I am proud to be part of their educational journey. __

This is my second incarnation as a teacher at Ivanhoe Girls’. I taught here almost 30 years ago, before moving on to positions of greater responsibility after I completed my Masters Degree in Education, Policy and Administration.

During this time I was mentored by members of the School Board, who were so supportive and remain very close friends today.

There is nothing like having your own class. Sharing the good, the not so good, the funny and the heart-warming moments with a class is what makes teaching so special.

I came back to Ivanhoe Girls’ for a year, to ensure teaching was out of my system before pursuing a career in psychology.

That was 10 years ago! Once back in the door, I felt I had come home. I had once again found my true passion. And that is the story of Ivanhoe Girls’ – the one school in Melbourne that makes everyone feel like they are part of one big family!

Outside of school I love spending time with my family and friends, working in my garden and resting on the beach with a good book, the warmth of the sun and the sounds of the surf or hearing the roar of the crowd at the MCG when my beloved Melbourne Demons actually win a game! __

I was the Science Coordinator, and taught Maths, Science and Biology. The School was small by today’s standards, 600 students in total.

I loved my teaching role, but it was the relationships that existed within the School that made it a very special place.

I left to have a family. It was at this point I felt the need to broaden my horizons. I undertook a Teacher Librarians’ course at Melbourne State College, and it was there I rediscovered my love of literature and developed a passion for students’ reading. I developed these skills at St Monica’s College, Epping, for the next ten years, but was always on the lookout for a position closer to my Melbourne home.

And I found it at Ivanhoe Girls’!

I was delighted to again join the staff, this time as Head of the Resource Centre (the Library).

It was an exciting time in education with computers and laptops in their infancy. The School had just purchased sixty laptops which the Library lent out to classes. They were exceptionally popular and kept us very busy!

My love of history coupled with world travel has always been source of joy. I retired in 2013 and the following year was delighted to be offered the job of School Archivist. For me, the words of Theodore Roosevelt; “The more you know about the past, the better prepared you are for the future,” are true. The recent years of working in this role has been a real pleasure, extremely satisfying and with lots of engagement with the school community.

Throughout my time at Ivanhoe Girls’, the ambiance of the School has remained unchanged. The School is welcoming, students enjoy not only their friendships with each other but also have a wonderful rapport with staff. And the staff are incredibly supportive of each other. __

Lux Mea

I

25

OUR COMMUNITY

Ivanhoe Girls’ Parents’ Association

Mother’s Day Luncheon

Our Alumni

Annabelle Walker Class of 2008

Greek Parents’ Association

45th Anniversary Greek Dinner Dance

After finishing at Ivanhoe Girls’ in 2008, I completed a Bachelor of Laws (Honours); Bachelor of Arts (Advanced Mandarin Chinese), and, a Diploma in Languages (Advanced French) concurrently. I completed the ASIC graduate program and the GDLP course required to become a lawyer, was admitted to practice in Victoria and earned a Masters of Corporate Law from the University of Cambridge. I have been working at ASIC since 2015, but took leave to complete my master’s degree at Cambridge University.

At Cambridge, every student is a member of a College. You live, eat, play sport and study within your college. I joined my College’s rowing team and the University athletics team and was part of several athletics meets against the University of Oxford. I achieved a balance between my course load, sport, socialising and enjoying all the additional extra-curricular activities Cambridge had to offer by strictly organising my time.

Cambridge was a challenge, but one of the best ones in my life. I’m thankful I put in the time and effort to enjoy the full experience as I now have friends around the world, doing interesting things like machine learning at Amazon, private equity in Kenya and scientific research on glaciers in Antarctica.

In the latter part of 2017, I returned to Melbourne and got married. My best friend from Ivanhoe Girls’, Philippa O’Brien, was my bridesmaid. I continue to work at ASIC and I am currently a member of their Corporate Governance Taskforce. I also sit on the Risk and Governance Committee for the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) and the committee for the Cambridge Society of Victoria. I have resumed volunteering with Youth Law Australia and I am a member of the Advisory Board for AirTutor and Avivo Elite Tutoring in Ivanhoe. __

26

I

Lux Mea

Katherine Murray (née Riggall) Class of 1989 Katherine Murray is urbanist with a background in architecture, urban design and sustainable development.

After a childhood in Eaglemont and 13 years at Ivanhoe Girls’, Katherine first studied architecture at RMIT and then sustainable development at Oxford Brookes University. Recently returned to Melbourne after 20+ years living, working and studying abroad, she has spent significant periods in Oxford, London, New York, Tokyo and most recently Singapore.

Her professional architectural and urban design career focused on social infrastructure, particularly in education (designing school and university buildings and masterplans) and international development (participatory interventions in informal urban settings), involving complex projects in numerous cities and contexts.

Four years ago, in Singapore, Katherine founded Young Urbanists, a social enterprise focused on urban education.

Young Urbanists collaborates with schools, institutions and local government, to develop educational content that enables young people to make sense of the cities they live in. Katherine will continue this work in Singapore and looks forward to new Melbourne-based opportunities to support better outcomes for cities.

On a personal level, she has been joined in these adventures by her husband James Murray and, over time, by their children, Sam, Alice, Philippa and Angus. Having undertaken their junior years at a British school in Singapore, the children have all begun school in Melbourne this year and are starting their own educational journeys here in Australia.

Katherine’s experience at Ivanhoe Girls’ gave her a great base from which to explore the world. Several teachers were instrumental in this, in particular two visual arts teachers – Christine Durham in the Junior School and John Pigott in the Senior School. Both of these teachers instilled in Katherine a love of learning and a curiosity about people and their relationship with material culture.

Katherine looks back on her years at Ivanhoe Girls’ with great fondness. __

Zoe Papatheohari Sarah Finnin Class of 2015

Class of 1999

After leaving Ivanhoe Girls’, I completed a Bachelor of Film and TV (Animation) at Swinburne University. Going into my course, I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do with my life or what I hoped to get out of it. But I had always wanted to study animation and figured that I might as well give it a go – I could always transfer! Luckily, it quickly became clear I was exactly where I wanted to be, and animation was the right path for me.

After graduating from Ivanhoe Girls’ 20 years ago, I have enjoyed a varied start to my career in the law. My studies and work have taken me to many interesting places, from Washington D.C. to Shanghai, from Alice Springs to New Caledonia, from Toronto to the Central African Republic.

My interest in animation began when I was around four years old, but it wasn’t until I was in secondary school that I considered it as a career path.

So, I chose to do a VET Certificate in Interactive Digital Media as part of my VCE. The animation components of the Cert III gave me my first taste of the software I would later use in university to create animated shorts, and if it weren’t for this introduction, I doubt I would have had the confidence to try animation at a tertiary level. (Shout out to Ms. Leone and Ms. Stalker for teaching my IDM classes and for believing in me!)

During my time at Ivanhoe Girls’, I didn’t have a clear idea of what I wanted to do after school. So I tried to keep my options open – I took a wide range of subjects, got involved in all kinds of co-curricular activities, and volunteered for any roles that needed filling. I’m so glad I did! I never thought doing Specialist Maths in Year 12 would help me, but it gave me a thorough understanding of how 3D animation software works. Taking part in the School’s music program gave me knowledge about sound production that I was able to use in the Audio Engineering parts of my course.

If I could give one piece of advice to students who are unsure of what they want to do when they leave school, it would be to try any activities or subjects that interest them.

You never know how trying something new could prove beneficial in the future, so you might as well have fun. __

I began my legal career in Australia, where I worked for a Supreme Court judge in Victoria and as a criminal prosecutor in the Northern Territory. I also spent some time completing a PhD at the University of Melbourne and working for a military law centre. Having developed a strong interest in international law, I then moved to The Hague. I spent five years as a war crimes prosecutor with the United Nations before taking up a position with a French human rights organisation last year.

My advice is to make time for volunteer work.

My volunteer roles and internships have allowed me to do things I never thought possible My volunteer roles and internships have allowed me to do things I never thought possible: travelling to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base as part of the defence team for terror suspect David Hicks, providing legal aid to refugees in a hotspot in the Greek islands, and working on a Parliamentary inquiry into the Bali bombings.

Volunteering allows you to explore the field you are interested in before you commit to a particular career path. Volunteer work also helps you develop skills and gain valuable practical experience. This is particularly important in the early stages of your career.

Any internships or volunteer positions that you can include when applying for your first job will make you stand out amongst the many other young women with similar profiles.

Finally, volunteering can open doors. Your willingness to devote your free time to others demonstrates commitment and allows future employers to see what you are really made of. It’s never too early to begin volunteering, so I suggest you start looking for opportunities while you are still at school and that you continue to make volunteering a priority throughout your careers. __

Lux Mea

I

27

Save the Date 2019 Reunions Classes of 1994 and 1999 Friday 26 July at 6.30pm

ELC – Year 11 Visual Arts Exhibition Monday 5 – Friday 9 August Hillsley Visual Arts and Hospitality Complex

Class of 2018 Wednesday 28 August at 6.30pm

Class of 1969 50 Year Reunion and Past Student Luncheon (Pre-1983) Friday 4 October at 12.00noon Hillsley Visual Arts and Hospitality Complex

Units 3 & 4 Visual Arts Exhibition Monday 14 – Tuesday 22 October (excluding the weekend) Hillsley Visual Arts and Hospitality Complex

School Tours Tours run from 9.00am – 10.00am and depart from the Performing Arts Centre. Register on our website

Thursday 8 August Tuesday 10 September Friday 11 October Thursday 14 November

123 Marshall Street Ivanhoe Victoria 3079 Australia T +613 9490 6222 E iggs@ivanhoegirls.vic.edu.au W www.ivanhoegirls.vic.edu.au CRICOS provider No. 00974A/018621A