Lux Mea | Winter 2023

2 From the Principal

From the Principal

As I write my first ‘From the Principal’ article for Lux Mea, I have been reflecting on where this journey all started. My association with Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School goes back to mid-1997, when I was the parent of a three-year-old, trying to figure out how to juggle the demands of my full-time corporate career based in the CBD, and my desire for a quality pre-school education for my daughter the following year.

23 Our Associations

Cover: Phoebe and Maeve (Year 9), at Open Day.

Back Cover: Cantabile, Concordia and Junior School Choir conducted by Teacher of Music Anna Van Veldhuisen at Service of Commissioning.

This magazine has been printed on Monza Satin 99% Recycled paper for our Lux Mea, Monza Recycled’s

EDITOR

Editor: Stephanie Caruso, Digital Content and Communications Coordinator

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

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I can’t remember how I became aware of the Early Learning Centre at Ivanhoe Girls’, but as soon as I did, the solution to the problem I had been wrestling with became clear. In 1998 my four-year-old started her formal education here, dressed in little brown shorts and a gold polo shirt. It was never our intention that she would go through to Junior or Senior School here, but as many staff, students and parents know, this is a very hard place to leave. That four-year-old is turning 30 this year and is a member of the Class of 2011. My first year as a staff member at Ivanhoe Girls’ was in 2003, so I came into the celebrations of the School’s centenary year and, after nine years away, I have returned in the year when we celebrate our 120th birthday.

It is such a privilege to be back as the 13th Principal of Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School. The role of Principal in an independent school is an intense one due to the significant workload, the high level of responsibility for people, and the very public nature of the role. It’s a job, but it’s also more than a job, and that’s what I love about it. It is about being part of a community. Having worked at all levels in both corporate and educational settings, I have certainly ‘found my niche’. I enjoy coming to work every day due to the variety and challenge of the role: interacting with

students, colleagues and community members; driving the educational improvement agenda; and running a business. This enjoyment gives me the energy to consistently work on implementing the School’s strategy and seeking the very best outcomes for students and their futures.

We know as members of this community that there is so much more to a truly excellent education that sets students up for their futures than good VCE scores… sure, they are important because they open doors, but it is the character and personal qualities of the person who walks through that door that matters most, how we have shaped a student’s thoughts, feelings and intentions; and sparked in that student the will to change the world.

That’s where the power of schools is and will continue to be, and where the Ivanhoe Girls’ edge will continue to come from. This is a school that has always had a progressive agenda with community and service at its heart.

As I look to the future of education across the next 10 years, and what we as a community need to focus on, I keep coming back to the work of the OECD Future of Education and Skills 2030 Project, and its Learning Compass 2030. This is an evolving learning framework, the product of collaboration among government representatives, academic experts, school leaders, teachers, students and social partners from around the world who have a genuine interest in supporting positive change in education systems.

The Learning Compass 2030 sets out an aspirational vision for the future of education to support two key outcomes: individual and collective wellbeing.

The metaphor of a learning compass was adopted to emphasise the increasing need for students to learn to navigate by themselves through unfamiliar contexts, and find their direction in a meaningful and responsible way, instead of simply receiving fixed instructions or directions from their teachers.

The OECD Learning Compass 2030 has identified three “transformative competencies” that students need in order to contribute to and thrive in our world and shape a better future. These competencies are:

1. Creating new value

2. Reconciling tensions and dilemmas

3. Taking Responsibility.

These transformative competencies are not simple ideas, nor are they the domain of any ‘subject’ or co-curricular area. It will take a very committed, extended community and significant partnerships, locally and globally, to give our students the very best opportunities to develop these competencies. Our students’ education will need to go well beyond the confines of our school grounds and beyond what is traditionally seen as school-based learning.

The next chapter in the innovation story of Ivanhoe Girls’ is indeed going to be a very exciting one.

Ms Narelle Umbers Principal

L-R Carmen (Year 10), Principal Narelle Umbers and Ranudi (Year 10).

"The next chapter in the innovation story of Ivanhoe Girls’ is indeed going to be an exciting one."

A Chat With Narelle

Students Anishka, Year 6, and Charli, Year 12, sat down with Ms Narelle Umbers for a chat about what it’s like having returned to Ivanhoe Girls’, as Principal.

What have been your favourite highlights about being back at Ivanhoe Girls’?

There have been many highlights so far this year! I have really loved being part of the House events again, the Junior and Senior School sports days and the swimming days, that’s been really great. I loved the Senior Production of Twelfth Night. It was amazing. The talent, dedication, and creativity on display was incredible. And just being back amongst the students and the staff and being in the classrooms – it’s been a really wonderful time.

What are you most looking forward to for the rest of the year in Junior School and Senior School?

Well, there’s the Junior Production that you’re going to be in! I am really looking forward to seeing Honk! Jnr, that’s going to be fantastic. Just spending more time in classrooms, and getting to know the School as it is now. And, I’m also really looking forward to working with our teachers and our professional staff. We have got lots of exciting projects on the go at the moment – thinking about how we want learning to be in the future and how we want to use technology better. I’m working with the Board to refine our strategy and thinking a lot about learning spaces, there are plenty of great projects on the go!

When you think of all the past Principals of our school, what do you believe is the value or culture they would want you to uphold and keep?

I think all of our School Values have been very important to our past Principals. We may not have had them articulated in exactly the same way, but I know, as someone who has been at the School in the past, how right our values are for our school. But I think the number one thing they would want me to continue to do is to have the students at the centre of all our decision-making all of the time. That is the most important thing I am sure they would say.

How have you found your past experiences at Ivanhoe Girls’ has benefitted your role as Principal?

I think it’s allowed me to hit the ground running because I have a pretty good understanding of the culture of the School, which hasn’t changed. The culture is one of the things I’ve always loved about the School. I also understand the flow of the year. Often if you are in a new school it takes about a year to understand what really goes on and I feel like I’ve kind of been able to skip some of that and just get started, which is really helpful.

After observing classes from ELC to Year 12, what did you find most interesting about the classroom environment?

The range of learning that occurs across the School. You sit with students in the ELC and it’s all play-based learning, and then in a Year 12 Chemistry class and it’s just completely at the other end of the scale. I think it just really reminded me of the breadth of what we do and how the learning needs to be differentiated across all of those parts of the School; and also, what opportunities that provides us, to investigate different styles of learning and different styles of teaching and to really get creative and innovative with our teaching because we’ve got such a range of learners in the School.

In regard to our Open Day this year, what do you believe was the key message potential families left with?

I really loved the Open Day; I thought it was absolutely great. I think families would have left with the message that we actually do live out our values. That it is a really connected and inclusive community, it’s a place where everyone is kind, it’s really vibrant – I think that came across amazingly well on Open Day. There was such a buzz around the School. But I think more than anything everyone went away with an understanding that our students really do speak for themselves in every possible way, and that’s an amazing message to take away.

Please note this is a transcript, you are able to watch the interview in our digital edition of the Lux Mea.

[1] L-R Principal Narelle Umbers with Charli (Year 12) and Anishka (Year 6).

Commissioning of the 13th Principal

On Friday 19 May, Ivanhoe Girls’ students from Years 3 to 12, staff, parents, members of the Clergy, and special guests came together for the Service of Commissioning of Ms Narelle Umbers as the 13th Principal of Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School.

St Paul’s Cathedral was filled with the joyous sounds of music to commemorate the event, with massed hymn signing, talented musicians and an opportunity for Junior School and Senior School choirs to perform together. The pride on the faces of the very youngest choristers was lovely to see as they joined the older students.

The Most Reverend Archbishop Dr Philip Freier, provided a Blessing, and symbolic gifts were presented as part of the ceremony: the School Bible, as a sign of the faith and values of the School; the School Candle as a sign of our commitment to nurturing the light of learning; the School History as a sign of all who have been part of the School; a 2023 School Roll listing of

staff and students to represent Ms Umber’s responsibility to look after, nurture and support the School community; and a Golden Mitre Rose as a sign of our appreciation of beauty and hope that we all grow in strength and knowledge together. Ms Umbers shared “While today might seem to be all about me, it is actually all about you, our students, because you are why the School exists, you are the lead characters in the School’s next chapter. As we start to write that chapter together, you are the ones in my mind, you are in the centre of everything that we do, and I count myself lucky to have the privilege of being part of your journey at Ivanhoe Girls’”.

[1] School Captain Paige (Year 12) and School Vice Captain Saambavi (Year 12). [2] The Very Revered Dr Andreas Loewe (Dean of Melbourne. [3] Cantablile, Concordia and Junior School Choir conducted by Music TeacherAnna Van Veldhuisen. [4] Principal Narelle Umbers presented with the 2023 School Roll by Karen Frost (Chair of the School Board), with The Most Revered Dr Philip Frier (The Archibishop of Melbourne). [5] Senior Chamber Choir, Bel Canto, Junior School Choristers and Hewison Strings. [6] Hannah (Year 6). [7] April (Year 12), Deputy Principal/Head of Senior School Louisa Scerri and Principal Narelle Umbers. [8] Madeleine (Year 4).

Development of our Reconciliation Action Plan

As we strive to live out our value of Connectedness in ever more meaningful ways, we have committed to the development of the Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School Reconciliation Action Plan. Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs) are strategic plans developed by schools to promote reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. They are designed to drive positive social change and promote cultural understanding, while also creating meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities.

CONNECTEDNESS

The Narragunnawali framework is an initiative developed by Reconciliation Australia to support schools to foster relationships, respect and understanding between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. The RAP framework outlines a sustainable, holistic approach to driving reconciliation in education by building relationships, respect and opportunities in the classroom, around the School and with the community.

Following the work done by a team of staff in 2021 and 2022 to reflect on the reconciliation journey of Ivanhoe Girls’ to date, our next step is to establish a RAP Working Group. This group will be made up of representatives of the Ivanhoe Girls’ community, including staff, students, and parents, as well as our local Indigenous community members.

The Working Group will gather information about the local Indigenous community and their culture. This will involve engaging with local Indigenous Elders and community members to gain an understanding of their history, culture, and values.

Once the RAP Working Group has a better understanding of the local Indigenous community, our next steps will be to develop the Ivanhoe Girls’ vision for reconciliation and to set targets and actions for our RAP. We will identify areas where our school can make a meaningful contribution to reconciliation. Examples may include improving cultural awareness among staff and students, incorporating Indigenous perspectives into the curriculum, and developing partnerships with local Indigenous organisations.

The final step will be to develop an implementation plan for the RAP. This will involve setting timelines and identifying the resources and support needed to achieve the targets and actions we have identified.

We understand that developing a RAP is a complex and ongoing process, and it requires commitment and support from the School community. However, the benefits of developing a RAP are significant. By promoting reconciliation and cultural understanding, Ivanhoe Girls’ can play an important role in building a more inclusive and harmonious community at school and beyond.

Ms Narelle Umbers Principal

We are empathetic and respectful of others and our environment. We embrace differences as they expand and challenge our thinking. We all belong.

Red Earth Indigenous Immersion

Over the April School Holidays, 26 students and three teachers ventured to far North Queensland for the Red Earth Indigenous Immersion Trip. The expedition was full of adventure, learning, and fun, and it was an experience we will all treasure for years to come.

However, for us 'Red-Earthers', the journey started long before the whirlwind morning of the airport. Prior to our departure, we participated in an ‘All Night Awake Relay’ as part of our fundraising efforts. Beginning at 7.00pm, three student teams competed to gain the most distance and money raised. In the end, despite little sleep, the whole group managed to run, walk and cycle 991km. Additionally, we were also able to raise $5,595, massively beating our target goal of $3,000. The relay also provided valuable insight into the friendships and connections we would form on this trip, and we had so much fun keeping up team-spirit with games, food and music. Having raised the money for our community projects in Cape York, we were now eager to pack our bags and meet bright and early at the airport.

Although a little sleep-deprived, the group was in high spirits as we flew over the beaches of Queensland on approach into Cairns. Despite complications with our bus and a speedy change of plans, our enthusiasm and anticipation remained strong on arrival to the first Homeland, Binthi Warra. Homeland to traditional owner Mel and her bubbly daughter Riley, Binthi Warra is a remote part of land nearby of Cooktown. Mel taught us how to use natural black dyes from the bush to colour materials, how to cook damper over an open fire, and how to use a traditional underground cooking method to create a magnificent roast feast. We even got to try turtle meat, something usually reserved for Christmas Day!

During our time at 'Binthi', we were exposed to ways of thinking that many of us hadn’t considered before. Uncle H, a local advocate for Indigenous rights, shared his thoughts on the Voice to Parliament Bill. He said with passion that it is not yet developed enough

to create adequate change for Indigenous Australians and isn’t representative of the Indigenous community as a whole, a perspective many of us had not yet considered. He later shared stories of Aboriginal friends of his who had faced police brutality and later died in custody. Although the realisation was confronting, it began to dawn on us that the privileged life we lead back in Melbourne was not synonymous with the life of many we shared a country with.

The community project at 'Binthi' felt like a way to give back to Mel and the land we had been living off. We scrubbed and varnished the traditional owner’s wooden house, installed solar batteries and cleaned and varnished the bathroom. It was hard work but we took periodic dips in a nearby gushing river and were ultimately grateful to be able to help out wherever we could!

Embarking onto the next homeland, we stopped off at Isabella Falls to enjoy the serenity of the sparkling waterfall, and at the Hope Vale Arts & Cultural Centre. Driving through Hope Vale and meeting the women of the Arts Centre, who were talented local artists, we once again were made aware of certain disparities which we had perhaps been ignorant towards back in Melbourne.

On arrival, we met the generous Tim and Elaine, the traditional owners of our next homeland, Panamuunji. During the smoking ceremony, we were all able to take a minute as we were engulfed by eucalyptus smoke. We were in mutual agreeance that the serenity and beauty of Panamuunji was unlike anything we’d experienced before, with the stars shining so bright at night that they illuminated the way to our tents. Over the following days Elaine taught us how to weave baskets and how to speak words from the Guugu Yimithirr language. We learnt

about the struggles of being a woman in Indigenous culture, something not often discussed when learning at school. Tim taught us many clever ways to live off the land, such as bush medicine and ‘bush pegs’ for hanging clothes.

At night we would sit around the fire listening to Tim. He expressed concerns of the Indigenous culture and language suffering more and stated his ongoing and outright support of the Voice to Parliament. We were able to reflect on our time in remote northern Queensland thus far. The lack of indoor facilities had been a large source of struggle for the group, but the question begged; how had we let ourselves become so accustomed to a life which so many in Australia do not have the privilege of living?

An additional highlight for many of us was playing touch football with Tim and Elaine’s grandsons, Lando and Jerry. Their enthusiasm and hilarious play-fighting reminded many of us of younger siblings back home!

Panamuunji is without a doubt land that we will never forget learning how to live off, and we were sorrowful to say our goodbyes to the generous Tim and Elaine and go. In contrast to the limited facilities and tough conditions we had been facing on the remote homelands, Port Douglas felt like a luxury. Our trip to the Great Barrier Reef served as a final celebration of the infinitely close bonds formed with each other over the 10 days. We had learnt how to survive without any devices, pack up campsites without leaving a trace on the environment left behind, and how to live off the land in a way cultivated through thousands of years of indigenous culture.

Red Earth is an experience we will carry with us through our adult lives, and we are inexplicably grateful for the opportunity to broaden our minds to remote Indigenous life.

Isabel, Emily, Jemima, Iliana and Imogen Years 10 and 11

[1] L-R Giovanna (Year 10), Iliana (Year 11), Emily (Year 10), Elly (Year 10), Gabi (Year 11), Conor (Year 10), Hayley (Year 10) and Ava (Year 10).

[2] L-R Imogen (Year 11), Caitlyn (Year 11), Red Earth Leaders Mitch and Jodie, Cindy (Year 11), Hayley (Year 10) and Aliss (Year 11).

[3] L-R Annabel (Year 11), Matthew Nolan, Elsie (Year 11) and Iliana (Year 11).

IGOGA Centenary

The School was delighted to host the 100th Anniversary Celebration during our 2023 Open Day for the Ivanhoe Girls’ Old Grammarians Association (IGOGA).

IGOGA has been an integral part of our school community and to celebrate its centenary, we hosted a celebration in The Cooerwull Centre with a lovely lunch and of course a birthday cake!

The Ivanhoe Girls’ Old Grammarians Association was formed in 1923 and since it’s beginnings, it has been a friendly and informative way for past students to stay connected with the School and fellow alumni. We look forward to seeing the future of our Alumni program as it evolves in the coming years. Some exciting changes are coming soon.

Open Day 2023

The excitement from our school community was undeniable in the lead up to Open Day.

With both our Professional and Teaching Staff working tirelessly to bring it all together, it was wonderful to see the sun shining brightly on Saturday 25 March. With a record number of visitors, 18 musical performances, an array of interactive activities, a sausage sizzle, 3,000 scoops of ice cream, face painting, hundreds of student-led tours and informative curricular and cocurricular displays; there was something for everyone to enjoy!

It has been wonderful to hear such positive feedback from our community, and to see an increased interest across all year levels of the School, 2023 in our opinion, was the most successful Ivanhoe Girls’ Open Day. Our sincerest gratitude goes to all Staff Members, School Association Members, Board Members, Alumni, current parents and students of all ages for volunteering your time and ultimately showcasing Ivanhoe Girls’ for what it is - a welcoming supportive learning community.

Ms Melanie Dow Director of Communications and Marketing and

Ms Marianna Scuderi Director of Admissions

[1] L-R Kerrie Haynes (Class of 1983), Susan Kent (Class of 1983), Liz Taylor (Class of 1967), Rachel Connor (Class of 1993), Rowena Archer (Class of 1986), Emily Cleeve (Class of 2018) and Ellie Taylor (Class of 2018). [2] Liz Taylor (Class of 1967) cutting the 100th IGOGA Centenary Cake.

[1] Grace (Year 10) and Elly (Year 10). [2] Junior Percussion. [3] L-R Catherine Gordon, Victor Chow and Wendy Shaw. [4] Sandy (Year 5). [5] Co-curricular Display. [6] Teacher of French Halina Craig and the Prep – Year 2 Choir – Performance. [7] L-R Jenny (Year 12), Izzy (Year 12), Georgia (Year 12), Milla (Year 12). [8] Head of Science Adam Boylett with a chemistry display. [9] Phoebe (Year 8) and Olivia (Year 7). [10] Mia (Year 2) and Alexia (Year 2). [11] Senior Artistic Swimming Team. [12] Alumni-led School Tours for guests of IGOGA Celebration.

VCE Results

Our Class of 2022 truly performed strongly and achieved outstanding results that reinforced Ivanhoe Girls' as one of the top-performing schools in Melbourne's North.

We are thankful they were able to complete their studies entirely onsite last year and we congratulate them on their excellent ATAR results. Our students are to be commended in addition to their VCE results, with 75% receiving a place in their first or second preference tertiary course and 79% receiving a place in a tertiary course of one of their first three choices.

ATAR Results

6% Students achieved an ATAR score higher than 99

10% Students achieved an ATAR score higher than 98

23% Students achieved an ATAR score higher than 95

39% Students achieved an ATAR score higher than 90

78% Students achieved an ATAR score higher than 80

Students with ATAR scores of 95 and above

Isabella

Bronte

Rachel

Lilla

Annabelle

Zoe

Greta

Kayla

Christina

Ruth

Xinran (Amy)

Adelina

Mietta

Katie

Alyssa

Valente

Mia

Georgia

Trixie

Abbey

Yunzhi

VCE Season of Excellence – Top Class

The VCE Season of Excellence is an annual festival showcasing a selection of outstanding work in a VCE or VET subject where a student has truly excelled. We were absolutely delighted for a group of our students to have been recognised in the 2022 season.

Congratulations to:

Mietta Theatre Studies

Emma Studio Arts

Caitlin Music

Emma Art

Study Scores

15% of all scores in subjects studied by students in Years 11 and 12 were 40 or more, placing them in the top 9% in the State.

Median Study Score: 34

The following students achieved scores of 47 or above for their studies:

• Kelly for English and History: Revolutions

• Zoe for Psychology

• Greta for Legal Studies

• Adelina for English and Legal Studies

• Alyssa for English

• Georgia for Psychology

The following students achieved a score of 40 or more in four subjects:

• Kayla

• Adelina

The following students achieved a score of 40 or more in three subjects:

• Bronte

• Imogen

• Greta

• Christina

• Xinran (Amy)

• Alyssa

• Mia

• Mia (Trixie)

Scholarships

Alyssa • Bachelor of Commerce at The University of Melbourne

• Offered the Commerce Achievement Scholarship

Mia

Tertiary Institutions Selected by the Class of 2022

• Bachelor of Nursing/ Bachelor of Midwifery at Deakin University

• Offered the Deakin ViceChancellor’s Academic Excellence Scholarship

Trixie

• Bachelor of Law Honours/ Bachelor of Global Studies (Human Rights) at La Trobe University

• Offered the Isaacson Davis Foundation Scholarship

Ruth

• Bachelor of Law Honours/ Bachelor of Arts at La Trobe University

• Offered the La Trobe Vice-Chancellor's Excellence Scholarship (Aspire)

Reflections from Duxes

Dux Alyssa

ATAR 99.8

Course: Bachelor of Commerce at The University of Melbourne

I am happy with my result and am excited for the opportunities it will bring me, but I know that I could not have done it without the support of my teachers, family and peers. Whether united in laughter or in struggle

I have always been inspired by the talent and dedication of the Class of 2022 and am proud of everything we have achieved.

Dux Secundi Adelina

ATAR 99.35

Course: Bachelor of Arts at The University of Melbourne

I am genuinely shocked and thrilled with the ATAR result I received and I am also beyond proud of the Class of 2022 for all of our hard work and achievements throughout the year; I’m now hoping to study Bachelor of Arts at The University of Melbourne as well as a Diploma of Music on the side.

Tertiary Courses

Offered and Accepted:

Arts

Animal and Veterinary Biosciences

Animal Science

Biomedical Science

Biomedicine

Building Design

Business

Business Professional Practice

Business Administration/Nursing

Business/Banking and Finance

Commerce Commerce/Arts

Commerce/Engineering

Commerce/Health Sciences

Commerce/Law

Computer Science

Criminology and Psychology

Cybersecurity/Criminology

Dermal Sciences

Design

Design/Architecture

Early Childhood Education

Education

Engineering

Engineering/Commerce

Film, Television and Animation

Fine Art

Games Design

Global Studies

Health Sciences

International Studies

International Security

Landscape Architecture

Law/Arts

Law/Science

Media Communication

Midwifery

Music

Nursing

Nursing/Midwifery

Occupational Therapy

Osteopathy/Health Science

Paramedicine

Podiatry

Psychology

Science

Screen Production

Veterinary Technology

120 Years of Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School Historical Timeline

1903

Miss Frances Lowe opened a school on the corner of Marshall Street and Sherwood Road, Ivanhoe, with two pupils.

1907

In 1907, the School transferred to Noel Street when enrolments had reached seven students. From 1907 – 1922 the School was known as “Cooerwull”.

1920

A kindergarten, called Girton, was established in St James’ Church hall for both boys and girls. It was run by the School until the early 1960s.

1923

Miss Lowe sold the School to the Vestry of St James’ Church in May 1922 and the School became Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School from the beginning of 1923. At that time the School had 98 students and was located in the original school house in Noel Street.

1929

Miss Doris Walker became Headmistress of Ivanhoe Girls’. Miss Walker oversaw the establishment of new buildings, and introduced probationers, a House system and honour boards. She retired in 1963. Walker Hall, now known as the Doris Walker Lecture Theatre, was named in her honour.

The first purpose-built classroom was built near the corner of Upper Heidelberg Road and Noel Street.

The House system was established with four Houses: Ashby (Red), Oswald (Green), Rotherwood (Blue) and Rowena (Yellow). The names of the Houses were taken from the novel Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott.

1935

Boarders were reintroduced to Ivanhoe Girls’, and a School Bus was introduced. This bus was one of the first independent school buses in Victoria, and catered for girls in the suburbs of Northcote, Preston and Eaglemont.

1945

A new Junior School building was officially opened, which created four new classrooms, and provided much needed room for the growing school.

1956

The opening of the Mary Vinnecombe Memorial Library was named in honour of Miss Vinnecombe, who joined the School in 1929 and gave devoted service until her death in 1954. She was the mistress of Oswald House, the Editor of the School Magazine and founded the School reference library.

1963

After 33 years as Headmistress, Miss Doris Walker retired. Miss Elizabeth Pike was Headmistress from 1963-1968. Under the guidance of Mrs Bonnie Hurry, the director of the Art and Craft Department, Ivanhoe Girls’ became a leading training Centre for Art and Craft teachers. This was a three-year course, and trained teachers in the art of weaving, needlework, mosaic, fabric printing, bookbinding and pottery.

1968

Walker Hall and the new Senior School was opened by the Archbishop of Melbourne in February 1968. This period of expansion continued into the 1970’s with the acquisition of properties on Marshall Street, the conversion of the former Middle School to Junior School, the construction of the Collins Wing, the establishment of the Frances Lowe Library, and the addition of Science laboratories for the Middle School.

1970

The School Representative Council (SRC) was established to provide students with the opportunity to participate in formal meeting procedures and committee process, and that experience when students and staff meet together and learn to work together for the welfare of the whole school.

With the increase in numbers of students, two more Houses were established: Locksley (White) and York (Purple).

1971

Mr Glyn France was Principal of Ivanhoe Girls’ from 1971 – 1977.

1973

The School celebrated its Golden Jubilee in 1973 with a Jubilee pageant.

1977

Miss Isobel Fiddian, Head of Junior School (1948 – 1977), retired. Her influence on the Junior School was profound, including introducing French across Years 2-6.

Mr John Shilliday was Principal from 1977 – 1991.

1983

The Junior School is relocated from the buildings at the top of Noel Street, to three redesigned Edwardian houses on Marshall Street, known as Amos, Fiddian and Sharwood.

1987

The Foundation Stone for the John Shilliday Physical Education Centre was unveiled in a special ceremony.

1991

Mrs Judy McCowan was Principal from 1991 – 1997.

1993

Walker Hall was redesigned as a VCE Centre and Senior Library, named the Doris Walker Centre.

The Performing Arts Centre is established on the corner of Noel Street and Upper Heidelberg Road. It becomes the Centre for School Assemblies and Musical and Theatrical Performances.

The Early Learning Centre for 4-year-old girls began and was housed in Fiddian House in the Junior School.

1998

Dr Heather Schnagl AM was Principal from 1998 - 2017.

St James’ House Early Learning Centre (18 Noel Street) was opened for girls aged three to five years.

2001

Hillsley - the former Knox Presbyterian Church was opened at end of 2001 as the Visual Arts and Hospitality Complex.

2005

The new Sports Field opens on Upper Heidelberg Road, Ivanhoe, with artificial turf and grounds for various sporting activities.

2007

A new school uniform is introduced, featuring a brown and cobalt blue Winter skirt and a Cobalt blue jumper. The new uniform was designed by past student, Jane Lamerton (Class of 1974).

2010

The Cooerwull Centre was opened by Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO, GovernorGeneral of Australia. It incorporates a Junior and Senior Library, Staff Centre and Cafe. In 2019 it was extended to include the Principal’s Office, Lounge and Board Room.

2011

The redevelopment of Sharwood House and construction of the Atrium creates a multi-use indoor space and new Junior School classrooms. The Junior School Library is moved to The Cooerwull Centre.

2015

The redevelopment of the Doris Walker Centre is opened by the Governor of Victoria and Prof Kwong Lee Dow with the addition of a Lecture Theatre, new classrooms and refurbished Years 11 and 12 Centres.

2018

Dr Deborah Priest was Principal from 2018 – 2022.

2020

The COVID-19 Pandemic interrupts our normal learning and teaching routine in 2020 and 2021. The Victorian Government mandates Offsite Learning and a series of school lockdowns.

2022

A new school uniform was introduced. The School uniform was designed by renowned designer, Jonathan Ward.

2023

Ms Narelle Umbers commences as Principal of Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School.

Embrace The Moment

Young people in today's society are constantly being told to focus on the future, specifically life after school, often being asked "What do you want to do after school? What university? What course? Perhaps you want to take a gap year?" Society's focus on the future has left us without the ability to live in the moment. To promote the idea of seizing every opportunity, the 2023 Prefect Team came up with the motto: Embrace the Moment.

Often people reflect upon positive times from their life, lamenting how they'll "never forget this." Whilst we encourage holding close to those good moments, as leaders of the School, we endeavour to foster an environment where reflection is encouraged, and those not-so-glossy moments are prized also. The vision behind "Embrace the Moment" is to take every moment, the good the bad and the ugly ones, and turn them into an opportunity to grow, both in knowledge and character.

Within the context of school life, embracing the moment can have a variety of applications. For our Junior School students, embracing the moment could be putting their hand up for the dreaded 25m butterfly race at House swimming, or maybe volunteering to lend a hand in Gardening Club. For our Years 7 and 8 students this could be embracing nerve-racking moments on camp which work to expand their comfort zones. Older students from Years 9-11 could embrace the

opportunity to stand up for something they believe in, such as giving back to the community through initiatives like the Red Earth Indigenous Immersion or volunteer with the Big Group Hug.

The motto is notably appropriate for the Class of 2023 as they embark on the closing year of their schooling. The looming figure of the ATAR and its potential to impact your life, makes the year seem impossibly difficult and stressful. Therefore, it's important to appreciate the moments as they come, especially within school life because we know that they are limited. As a cohort and a community, we need to share the highs and lows and remind each other to 'Embrace the Moment'.

Paige, School Captain and Saambavi, School Vice Captain

2023 Student Leadership Committee

School Captain Paige

School Vice Captain Saambavi

Captain of Ashby Isabella

Captain of Locksley Olivia

Captain of Oswald Jenny

Captain of Rotherwood Elizabeth

Captain of Rowena Zoe

Captain of York Tessa

Social Service Prefect Skana

SRC President Mary

Captain of Drama Tayla

Captain of Music Lucy

Captain of Sport Evie

Captain of Debating Genevieve

Year Level Liaison Prefect Zoe

Year Level Liaison Prefect Emily

Year Level Liaison Prefect Lara

Day in the Life of the ELC

In the Early Learning Centre, every day is a new surprise and full of new adventures.

Early in the year, we establish routines that provide opportunities to practise being independent, responsible, and caring individuals.

“When we come, we put our lunch box in the little locker things and then our bags in our lockers. It’s our job.” Penny

“We say hello to the teachers because it’s nice.” Charlie

“We help, be kind and be happy with what we are playing.” Isabelle

“When someone wants to play I can say to them ‘Do you want to play?’ Ariana

Our morning usually starts with a Morning Meeting where we see who is at Kinder or PrePrep, learn about the days’ classes, special events or projects we are working on in our classes. We are also beginning to learn about doing an Acknowledgement of Country each day. Addie explains why this is important;

“To help make sure everyone knows what to do to take care of the land, to keep the animals healthy and the trees that are growing food for us and to make sure there are lakes for us to drink from.”

Throughout the day, we are very fortunate to participate in Specialist Classes. Some of these occur in the ELC and others involve walking to other areas of the School. This is part of our routine that provides many opportunities for learning. We build familiarity with the school and develop a sense of belonging and community. We are also learning about road safety.

“We hold our partner’s hand when we walk, and we stand near the gardens.” Aizel “Specialists are where you go to classes. You learn Sport and Music, Art and Library.”

Alexis

“Also how to speak French.” Aysha

The girls bring morning tea and lunch from home which provides them with the opportunity to practise important self-help and independence skills. These times are full of lovely conversations between children and educators. This routine provides opportunities to learn about eating a healthy, varied diet, about the environment and how to manage our rubbish.

“Throw our rubbish in the bin or the animals will eat it.” Isla

When we are not at specialist classes, the girls are playing indoors or outdoors. The environment is thoughtfully set up to invite playful enquiry, curiosity, creativity and thinking skills. Our programs are very intentional. The conversations, routines, group experiences and areas we set up have specific goals or specific children in mind. These goals support and extend the girls learning whilst being flexible enough to respond to spontaneous interests that might emerge through the day. We know that we all learn best when we are engaged and motivated so we aim to capitalise on those exciting spontaneous moments as much as we can. Quite often the richest learning can emerge from the most unexpected experiences.

A recent example was when some of the Kinder girls discovered lots of rubbish in our yard after a particularly windy weekend. They were worried about this and as a group walked around collecting different kinds of rubbish. They picked up all the rubbish before sorting them into different categories. Leila suggested they “recycle the things, and make something new”. This sentiment was reinforced by Sophie, who said “When you have rubbish and lids, you just say “I can use it again”.

One of our educational influences comes from the Reggio Emilia Approach that reminds us of the competence of young children and the power in authentically listening to their ideas and inviting them to contribute to matters that affect them. These important discussions about waste, recycling and looking after the environment seamlessly led into discussions about Indigenous perspectives and what we can learn from Australia’s First Nations’ peoples. Our day is full of so much activity and learning. An opportunity to rest and recharge is offered to the girls and they are encouraged to think about what their body needs on that day.

“Recharge means resting time. You read stories and just have a little rest time.” Jocelyn

“You read some books and rest up.”

Madison

“You can close your eyes and even sleep.”

Olivia

“I do some little drawings and just be quiet.”

Emily

Sometimes we even have some peppermint tea using mint from our ELC garden before we rest. This calms our bodies and makes us ready to rest. Each class has their own routine to end the day. We come together to say goodbye before welcoming parents, grandparents or special people into the room.

“Your mummy or daddy or nanna stands on the magic mats after we say bye. You give them cuddles when they are on the mat.” Lily

“You wait for them to stand there and then you go home together.” Ariana

“We sing “Skiddamarinky dink I love you!”

Camellia

Ms Bernadette Gioia

Director of the Early Learning Centre and PrePrep Teacher

Ms Emily Franceschi

Kinder Teacher

and the Students of the ELC

Discovering Democracy

Throughout Semester 1, the Year 6’s have been learning all about Australian Democracy: how it was formed, how it has changed over time, and how it affects our lives today. We learnt about this topic in various ways, including an engaging project for Open Day, and an exciting trip to Canberra.

We started our study of Democracy learning all about Australia’s federation. We then went on to learn about referendums and plebiscites. A plebiscite is a vote mainly used to gauge public opinion, to guide the government’s decision on a question. Unlike a referendum, it does not immediately change the Constitution. We thought about questions to vote on that would help improve our society. We then worked in groups on different questions to write arguments, and to make campaign posters and videos. These campaigns were presented at Open Day and voted on by families who visited us on the day.

On 8 May, Year 6 left Ivanhoe Girls’ to travel on a 10-hour bus ride to Canberra. We settled ourselves into our rooms on Monday night after arriving at our accommodation in Canberra Park.

The first full day was on Tuesday, when the Year 6’s visited the Royal Australian Mint. We got to see coins being made! We then went to Government House, which is where the Governor General lives. We saw the special trees in the backyard, planted by important people who had visited. There was a tree from the late Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth II. We also got to see the

Governor General’s Rolls Royce car, which he uses when he attends Parliament House. Wednesday was the biggest day of our Canberra trip. At the Electoral Education Office we role-played a referendum. We also took a tour around Old Parliament House, where we wore special gloves to preserve the artifacts. We also learnt about political cartoons and created some ourselves.

Parliament House was definitely exciting for everyone. It was very fancy and we enjoyed a special tour. Our group went to the Senate first, which is one of the two houses of parliament. It wasn’t particularly busy in there. On the other hand, the House of Representatives was buzzing! We got to see the Prime Minister, and lots of people made speeches debating the recent budget. The other group got to meet the CEO of Qantas! We all met up for some delicious afternoon tea, a really cool LEGO structure of Parliament House, and to see Kate Thwaites, our local federal MP.

After Parliament House, we went to Questacon which was clearly a favourite for most people. The main highlights were the earthquake simulator and the free-fall. We even got to see caged lightning!

We started Thursday with a cycle around Lake Burley Griffin. We learnt a lot about Australians in war at The Australian War Memorial. We saw the Eternal Flame and went inside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Unknown Soldier represents everyone who fought and died in war whose body wasn’t identified. The final thing we did on Thursday was a visit to the National Film and Sound Archives. We learnt about media literacy, and by the time the session was finished, we were experts.

To wrap up our Canberra tour, we got to go to the National Arboretum and visit the world-famous playground there. After that, we headed to the airport to hop on a flight back to Melbourne.

Overall, Semester 1 was very eventful for the Year 6’s, and our brains are now full to the brim with knowledge about Australian Democracy. Some of us are now considering a career in politics and maybe becoming a future Prime Minister (or even President!).

Maxine and VyVy

Year 6

Wild Explorers

In Prep, our topic for Term 2 was Living Things: Big and Small, where the students used their senses to observe the features of Living Things and explore how animals and plants can be grouped according to these features.

Our Wild Explorers dived into their learning by working in teams to sort and classify pictures of animals based on their coverings - scales, skin, feathers, fur and shell. The Prep’s became real-life Wild Explorers as they packed their bags, jumped on the bus and headed off on an adventure to the Melbourne Zoo! As we roamed the Zoo, the Wild Explorers worked in groups to snap pictures of the many animals, big and small. They used their senses and made observations, discussed the options and classified the animals accordingly. With this newfound knowledge, students returned to school ready to design a Zoo for the future! They worked in small groups to plan, design and create a new layout for the zoo animals! Our Zoo designers loved this hands-on, creative and collaborative activity where there was a buzz of discussion, decision making and problem-solving.

Ms Tess Morriss and Mrs Jo Rowlands, Prep Classroom Teachers

L-R Allegra (Prep), Tayla (Prep), Mia (Prep), Chiara (Prep). [2] Emma (Prep). [3] Prep students observing a Lemur.

Tayla (Prep). [5] Ava (Prep). [6] Hannah (Prep). [7] Sienna (Prep). [8] Siya (Prep). [9] Matilda (Prep).

Twelfth Night 2023 Senior School Production Director’s Notes

There is a delight that Shakespeare's comedies bring to an audience that is still unmatched in the world of theatre. His comedic works, such as Twelfth Night, are filled with witty wordplay, clever plot twists, mistaken identities, and heartbroken lovers. On the one hand, Shakespeare's comedies allow us to escape the troubles of the world. On the other, despite being over 400 years old, they are a clever exploration of our lives.

They capture the human experience in all its complexity. Here, among the chaos and revelry, Shakespeare primarily examines gender identity and love. The character of Viola, who disguises herself as a man to navigate a male-dominated society, speaks to our ongoing struggles for gender equality. And as Orsino finds himself loving male Cesario, (or is it female Viola?), we are reminded that ‘love is love’.

There is also a delight in recontextualising a Shakespearean text. While we remain faithful here to the poetic language and events of the play, we move away from the isle of Illyria circa 1600, washing ashore somewhat closer to a retro Palm Springs. With Christina Logan-Bell’s set design and our ‘from Bossa to Blur via Disco’ soundtrack, we hope to have made the story more joyously comprehensible … and fun!

I congratulate the cast and crew. They have worked tirelessly with energy and passion since February, giving up weekends to learn

how to stage-fight and fall tragically in love with someone dressed as ‘what’stheir-name’ because of the prank set up by ‘who’samajig’. It has been a privilege working with such a talented group of young people. They are great ambassadors for Ivanhoe Girls’ and for their peers. In particular, I acknowledge the Year 12s who we farewell this year. They are advocates for The Arts and leaders within their community. We wish them all the best for their futures and encourage them to continue their inspiring involvement in theatre.

We owe our gratitude to the Production Team for their generosity and commitment to the process. The success of the show is due to the collaboration with Chris Cox, Emma Kiely, Ally Ritchie and Mietta Kerger (Class of 2022). These people, have worked tirelessly to bring this story to life. We could not have told the story without them.

Ms Catherine Ohlsen Drama Coordinator

Student’s Perspective

This year, the Twelfth Night cast have been busy at rehearsals practicing dances, writing music, translating Shakespearean verse, and blocking one of Shakespeare's most confusing love stories. This play is one where you truly must embrace the awkwardness of acting and put yourself out there, though with such a supportive cast it is always a hilarious and enjoyable rehearsal.

Performing Arts will be one of the things I miss most about school when I graduate. For myself and many others at Ivanhoe Girls’, the School Production is the highlight of the year. More than just a chance to get involved in drama and learn theatre skills, it has always been a place where people of all year levels become great friends. Performing Arts has left me with some of my best memories of Sunday rehearsals with chips at break time, trying on costumes with friends and laughing as we all trip over our own feet trying to learn dances.

As I look back at the year, I realise how much we have all grown in confidence and skills from just one production. After so much hard work and so many years, it is a pleasure to end my years of school theatre with Twelfth Night and its amazing cast.

Tayla 2023 Captain of Drama

[1] Chorus of Twelfth Night with Mily (Year 10). [2] L-R Lucy (Year 12), Kathy (Year 10), Miles (Year 9), Nicolette (Year 10), Isabella (Year 12), Paige (Year 12) and Tayla (Year 12). [3] Iliana (Year 11) and Charlie (Year 11). [4] Chorus of Twelfth Night with Mily (Year 10) and Charlie (Year 11). [5] L-R Tayla (Year 12), Audrey (Year 11), Mairead (Year 11) and Nicolette (Year 10). [6] Jemima (Year 10). [7] Isabella (Year 12). [8] Paige (Year 12) and Nicolette (Year 10). [9] Estella (Year 11). [10] Jessica (Year 12) and Charlie (Year 11). [11] Audrey (Year 11). [12] L-R Mily (Year 10), Charlie (Year 11), Estella (Year 11), Jemima (Year 10), Isabella (Year 12) and Jessica (Year 12).

Returned Alumni

At Ivanhoe Girls’ it is special when Alumni return to the School as a member of staff in either a teaching or professional capacity.

Over the years our Alumni have supported students in various ways, including many as Coaches for our wide range of sporting teams. As part of 120 years of Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School, we take a look at these Alumni from graduation to the present day.

Helen West Class of 1967 Library Assistant, CRT – Junior School

Gen Cartwright Class of 1997 Timetabler, Teacher of Mathematics and French –Senior School

Ellen Cameron Class of 2004 Year 4 Classroom Teacher – Junior School

Halina Craig Class of 1981 Teacher of French – Junior School, Teacher of Dance

Rebecca Sneddon Class of 1998 School Psychologist

Catherine Tieman Class of 2005 Library Technician

Fiona Alderson Class of 1991 Teacher of Health and Physical Education and Science – Senior School

Alexia Gibbons Class of 2003 Library Assistant, Teacher of English – Senior School

Elle Ward Class of 2007 Student Services Administrator

Reunions

In early February we were delighted to host our first Reunion of the year, for the Classes of 1988, 1993, 1998 and 2003!

We had such a wonderful afternoon with a buzz in the air as people reunited and connected over their time at Ivanhoe Girls'. We look forward to our upcoming Reunions later in the year.

1988Classof

1993Classof

1998Classof

2003Classof

Alexandra Smith Class of 2007 Year 6 Classroom Teacher – Junior School

Stephanie Caruso Class of 2016 Digital Content and Communications Coordinator

Eilish Tobias Class of 2018 Learning Support Assistant – Senior School

Isabelle Hoadley Class of 2008 Teacher of Mathematics – Senior School

Cooerwull Service Awards

With the primary aim to maintain connections to the School, not just for the present but into the future, Cooerwull were delighted to congratulate many members of our Associations and Teaching and Professional Staff at the 2023 Cooerwull Service Awards for their valued contributions to the School.

[1] L-R: Liz Taylor and Karen Frost. [2] L-R: Sandra vander Pal and Karen Frost. [3] L-R: Sylvia Gilbert and Karen Frost. [4] L-R: Rosa Leone and Karen Frost. [5] L-R: John Gunston and Karen Frost. [6] L-R: Laura Ross and Karen Frost. [7] L-R: Phil Natt, Ronan Gill, Fiona Alderson, Joanne Kinsman, Helen Mutkins, Mel Nomes and Paola Squires. [8] L-R: Katrina Benson, Jenny Thomsett and Rob Fuller. [9] L-R: Tarek Sabbah, Catherine Tieman, Kylie Sapuppo, Mikaela Haynes, Menik Koralege, Rebecca May, Fiona Mulvaney, Kelly Davey, Gabby Timm, Danni Wang, Claudette Siroky and Lisa Cosentino.

Cross Country Skiing Team Parents' Committee

The Cross Country Skiing Team Parents’ Committee is a community of parent volunteers passionate about enriching the lives of their child/ren through an amazing sport, making wonderful friends with many other parents from Ivanhoe Girls’ is one of my many reasons why I love being a part of this Committee.

As an Alumni of Ivanhoe Girls’, Class of 1988, it was a unique experience to return to the School 25 years later when my first daughter started in 2013. Having had one daughter graduate and another in Year 11, I have seen the School from many perspectives; being a part of Snow Sports over the last four years has really encouraged me to become an active parent volunteer of the School and appreciate the opportunities my daughter’s were given. Why do I volunteer? Simple - to see the smile on my daughter’s face and everyone else’s around her. The highlight of Snow Sports is always the Ski Camp at Falls Creek where families come together and just have fun. As a parent, we take the opportunity to exercise together whilst our children train on Sunday’s and enjoy accompanying them to Ski Camp, we also travel to Mount Buller in August to watch and support the races. Whilst many in our community ski, there are several parents who don’t and we welcome all to be a part of the community that is the Cross Country Skiing Team Parents’ Committee.

Ms Sarah Campbell

President, Cross Country Skiing Team Parents’ Committee

Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School Parents' Association (IGGSPA)

My role as President of the Parent’s Association is to support the School and the School community in the spirt of the 96 years proceeding me. Our goal is to bring friendship and community to the School through events and activities.

This role means that I am fortunate to work closely with passionate parents who have great ideas, and we work together to execute these in the form of social functions and themed fundraisers, for example the Easter Fundraiser, Mother’s and Father’s Day events, Christmas Lunch and Trivia Night. We also run the Second Life Uniform Shop (SLU) at Wooley House allowing parents to sell and buy used uniform items.

For parents, the School journey is primarily about their child/ren, however the years spent at Ivanhoe Girls’ will also be part of their life. Knowing that there’s a school community that they can be part of is a nice thing to have available to people.

My daughter started at Ivanhoe Girls’ in Year 5 and for me, the Association has been a great way to meet people, learn about the road ahead and what to expect, and to become a part of the wider School community.

With the funds raised, we support a number of ever-changing initiatives for the students, including awards and prizes for Celebration Night’s, icy poles for sports days, easter eggs for afternoon teas, new equipment for the Gym, funds for break out spaces, the Indigenous Garden and so on. It’s a rewarding and active space to be in.

Mrs Claudette Siroky President, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School Parents' Association

Save the Date 2023

Reunions

Class of 2022 Reunion

Presented by the IGOGA

Hillsley Gallery

Wednesday 30 August 2023

6.30pm to 8.30pm

Past Student Luncheon and 50 Year Reunion Celebration

Hillsley Gallery

Thurday 28 September 2023

12.00pm to 3.00pm

Classes of 2008 and 2013 Reunion

Ivanhoe Girls’ Performing Arts Centre Foyer

Saturday 7 October 2023

3.30pm to 5.30pm

Young Alumni Catch Up (Classes of 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021)

Venue TBA

Saturday 7 October 2023

3.30pm to 5.30pm

School Tours

Wednesday 16 August 2023

Tuesday 10 October 2023

All School Tours commence at 9.00am from the Performing Arts Centre, corner of Upper Heidelberg Road and Noel Street. Bookings are required and can be made via ivanhoegirls.vic.edu.au.

Art Exhibitions

ELC – Year 11 Visual Art Exhibition

Monday 7 August – Friday 11 August 2023

Hillsley Visual Arts and Hospitality Complex

Units 3 & 4 VCE Visual Arts Exhibition

Monday 9 October – Tuesday 17 October 2023

Hillsley Visual Arts and Hospitality Complex