loreto kirribilli Number 85, December 2020
www.loreto.nsw.edu.au
• justice • sincerity • verity • felicity • freedom • justice • sincerity • verity • felicity • freedom •
Term 4 Return to School
Term 4 Return to School
Term 4 Return to School
New Student Leader Induction Ceremony
Junior School Book Week Parade
Junior School Book Week Parade
Writers' Workshop
Future Problem Solving Competition Winners
Code Club
Junior School Mission Day
Junior School Mission Day
Private Music Studio Concert
Junior School Raw Art
Junior School Raw Art
LK Connect Mentor/Mentee Event
Kindergarten Assembly
Junior School Chess Competition
NAIDOC Week
Remembrance Day
Junior School Waste Free Wednesday
Final HSC Examination
Term 4 Assembly
Junior School Music
Year 7 2021 Orientation
Year 12 Graduation Ceremony
Year 12 Graduation Ceremony
Year 9 Leadership Day
Year 12 Graduation Dinner
Year 12 Graduation Dinner
Junior School Mandarin Assembly
Stay up to date on the latest Loreto Kirribilli news by following us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn @Loreto_LK
loretokirribilli
Loreto Kirribilli
contents
THE PRINCIPAL 2
Junior School Orientation
Ethics Olympiad
Year 8 Charism Day
FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD
4
SOCIAL JUSTICE
6
ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND PARTNERSHIPS 8
Year 7 Pastoral Day
Junior School Graduation Mass
Interhouse Debating Final
Year 10 LK Challenge
VEX Robotics
Year 6 Graduation
INNOVATION CENTRE UPDATE
12
FUTURE LEARNING
13
JUNIOR SCHOOL LEARNING
14
SENIOR SCHOOL LEARNING
18
FUTURE PROBLEM SOLVING
21
AHIGS VIRTUAL FESTIVAL OF SPEECH
22
ETHICS OLYMPIAD
22
HSC SHOWCASE DRAMA AND MUSIC
23
HSC SHOWCASE TAS
24
HSC SHOWCASE VISUAL ARTS
25
MUSIC FESTIVAL
26
WELLBEING 27
Year 6 Graduation Lunch
Junior School Assembly
LSAC Student Leader Conference
GRADUATING CLASS OF 2020
28
MESSAGE FROM THE SCHOOL CAPTAIN
31
SPORT 32
Year 10 Emmaus Service Ministry Program
Veritree
Year 10 Design & Technology
JUNIOR SCHOOL ATHLETICS CARNIVAL
34
SENIOR SCHOOL ATHLETICS CARNIVAL
35
SHARING OUR FAITH
36
SHARING OUR COMMUNITY
38
RETIREMENTS 40
Junior School Advent Liturgy
Senior School Advent Liturgy
Contributions for inclusion in Spirit should be sent to: Communications at Loreto Kirribilli 85 Carabella Street, Kirribilli NSW 2061 Phone 02 9957 4722 communications@loreto.nsw.edu.au
Senior School Years 7-11 Awards Ceremony
LK CONNECT
41
PARENTS AND FRIENDS
42
EX-STUDENTS' UNION
43
2021 EVENTS 44
The Principal anna dickinson (mrs)
The resilience and determination of our students, clearly evident throughout this challenging year, is something I admire. In particular, I am very proud of the way the Class of 2020 dealt with the uncertainty and stress of the most unusual of HSC years. Without a doubt, the support and encouragement the girls gave one another, reinforced by the care of staff, parents and ex-students, made all the difference. Rather than focusing on themselves, the girls actively looked beyond their own needs by finding ways to bring joy and laughter to the younger year groups. The Class of 2020’s spirit of determination will be their legacy, setting a standard for younger students to aspire to in the years ahead. I am also very proud of our Loreto Kirribilli teachers, school executive members and support staff for their extraordinary commitment and capacity to adapt. They ensured the
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girls received two modes of learning, delivering face-to-face teaching and remote lessons online as needed. Many events and school experiences continued to be available thanks to our dedicated staff reorganising and reimagining them in forms compliant with NSW Health requirements. Our Music Festival, Orientation Days, Graduation ceremonies, Parents and Teacher interviews, School tours, Awards ceremonies and many more were all made possible by the energy, versatility and creativity of staff. It was apt that the UNESCO theme for World Teachers’ Day this year was, 'Teachers: Leading in Crisis, Reimagining the Future.' I congratulate and thank
all our teachers and support staff for their professionalism, their passion for the education of young people and their dedication to and care of our students. Throughout the year, staff ensured our girls were able to continue to engage in their co-curricular programs, finding new ways of offering these experiences wherever possible. One of these was sport. Sport is good for the mind, body and spirit, so when we emerged from lockdown our teachers immediately engaged in discussions and developed solutions to ensure our girls could continue their sporting programs. There is so much evidence that engagement in sport strengthens
academic achievements as well as developing leadership skills, team work, organisational abilities, goal setting, communicating and problem solving skills and builds resilience. Sport is an important part of life for a Loreto Kirribilli girl with an extensive sporting program offered to each and every student. Universities also recognise the benefit of sport. A wonderful example of this is the offer of a place at Yale University to Lily Eales in Year 12. We congratulate Lily, who received this offer following her excellent academic, sporting and leadership achievements. The quality of our Rowing Program enabled Lily to show her capacity as an elite sportswoman, which in turn has offered her this significant pathway. Our students are fortunate to have the strength of our Loreto Kirribilli sporting programs enabling them to successfully apply to international universities such as Yale and Harvard, as well as supporting them gain early admission to our national universities. Congratulations and thanks to all who have participated in, coached, managed and supported our sporting programs throughout the year. Our vast array of cultural extracurricular programs have also been adapted, delighting students and parents. Throughout the year our girls demonstrated great skill, determination and competitive spirit in the Music Festival, debating, public speaking, national future problem solving, NSW Ethics Olympiad, scientific enquiry competitions, NSW History essay challenges and robotics competitions, to name but a few. I hope you enjoy reading about some
of their achievements highlighted throughout the pages of Spirit. Making a positive difference in the lives of others is a priority for our students and staff. This was realised in many different forms throughout the year, examples of which include raising much-needed funds for Mary Ward International projects, hamper appeals, supporting children in developing their reading skills through the Smith Family ‘Student2Student' program, maskmaking for the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse cancer centre and assembling birthing kits through the Emmaus service ministry program. Our students also raised awareness of environmental sustainability and fundraised to alleviate the impact of the crisis in Beirut after the fertilizer explosion. Additionally, many of our girls are also engaged in social justice works outside of school hours as part of our Mary Ward Service program. I once again thank our staff and students for their generosity of heart and the positive difference they are making in the lives of others. I conclude this edition of Spirit with some thoughts on the International Day of the Girl held on 11 October. This commemorated 25 years since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform - the global agenda for advancing the rights and empowerment of women and girls everywhere. Progress for adolescent girls has not kept pace with the realities they face today, and COVID-19 has reinforced many of these gaps. As adolescent girls worldwide assert their power as changemakers,
International Day of the Girl 2020 focused on the right of girls to live free from gender-based violence, harmful practices, HIV and AIDS and to be able to learn new skills towards the futures they choose and lead as a generation of activists accelerating social change. International Day of the Girl is a reminder to us of the privilege we have in living in a society such as ours and the need to show gratitude for this. It is also a reminder to work to share those privileges with those to whom they are not available. I look forward to witnessing the many and varied responses that our girls continue to make as changemakers. As 2020 concludes, we look to the future with hope and optimism. I thank all members of the school community for their support of each other throughout this year and I wish all readers of Spirit a happy, holy and healthy Christmas.
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From the School Board sheila MCGREGOR | Chairperson of the Loreto Kirribilli Board On a Saturday evening in late November I was sitting with a group of friends, all ex-Loreto Kirribilli girls, and we were comparing notes on the year 2020. How glad we were to see the end of it, what an awful year it had been, how we hoped we would not have to live through another ‘unprecedented’ year like this one, and so on. Then, almost at the same time, that Loreto Kirribilli spirit ignited and the conversation turned to the positives, and one by one we shared examples: •
the new technology skills we all developed as we met and worked on Zoom, MS Teams and other virtual meeting sites, and how effectively technology can be used to stay connected when physical connection is not possible;
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the importance of family, friends and other networks as our physical world got smaller and we could not travel, socialise, go to concerts and so on;
Our Year 12 girls grew in their resilience.
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the pleasure in simple things, like going for a swim, as the world slowed down;
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realising how lucky we are to live in Sydney, compared to other cities and countries around the world; and
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the fact that we were not going to waste this crisis, but instead embrace the permanent changes we made to some of our behaviours and patterns.
Of all the year groups, our Year 12 girls felt the effects of COVID-19 most keenly. There was so much uncertainty. Would there be an HSC? What would happen to practical courses during the lockdown? When would the Year 12 girls be back to face-to-face learning? Would there be a formal? Would there be a Graduation Ceremony? Would the girls be crowned in that great Loreto Kirribilli tradition like all the Year 12 girls before them? The Year 12 girls dug deep, looked after each other, and responded so well to the extra teaching and support the School offered. As a result, their ‘lived’ experience is change, agility, and uncertainty; all these experiences contributing to that quality of resilience the School is so focused on developing. The other positive is that the School worked out a way to crown them, to organise a formal, and to hold a Graduation Ceremony and all those Year 12 rites of passage!
If I look for 2020 positives for the School, I see so many examples: Our teachers and staff learned valuable new skills. In March, as rumours were circulating about NSW schools being closed, quick decisions had to be made about how we would continue teaching our girls. In anticipation of some kind of lockdown, teachers began training in remote online learning. This was a challenge for some who had not grown up with technology and had never attended a ‘virtual’ meeting. Our investment in technology and teacher development in earlier years came to the fore and, in a short time, our digitally savvy teachers were assisting their less digitally experienced colleagues on how to use the new tools available. All our teachers stepped up to the challenge and soon we had a reskilled workforce which was as comfortable teaching virtually as in the classroom and is now able to do both for the benefit of all our students. Our teachers and staff have responded so well to the constant changes that 2020 has brought. Change is now the ‘new normal’ for them, as new technology and technology skills will continue to evolve and be so important to the ongoing education of our girls. Their ability to embrace the challenge and quickly adapt in this crisis has shown how great they are as role models for the girls.
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Our community stood up to help those financially impacted by COVID-19. We quickly realised that some families were financially impacted by COVID, and took steps to support those families as they navigated through sudden and unexpected changes in their situation. We have been pleased to provide this support and now see many of those families coming through their period of hardship. We remained focused on evolving the school to meet the demands of the future. When the impact of COVID started becoming clearer, we temporarily deferred our Innovation Centre development. As things improved, we were able to restart it in a way and with a timeline that will see it completed at the end of next year. As you can see from the photo of Mrs Dickinson (above), we turned the first sod a few weeks ago and are so pleased to see progress on the site already.
We have also continued to be prudent and have never lost sight of the financial sustainability of the School. This is increasingly important in light of the 10-year journey we are on, adjusting to the annual reductions in Government funding as well as the pressures of an increasing cost base. We grew our LK Connect network. As with our move to remote online learning, we digitised our LK Connect events and ran two fabulous LK Connect panels on MS Teams, with hundreds of students and ex-students dialing in for these conversations. In addition, through our LK Connect program, Year 12 girls left the School with a mentor to help them navigate the next stage of their lives.
extraordinarily volatile times - times for which we are all now better prepared. A ‘new normal’ in which I know all Loreto Kirribilli students, parents and staff will thrive. On behalf of the Board, I would like to acknowledge the leadership of Mrs Dickinson and her executive team through this very challenging year. Again, on behalf of the Board, I wish you and your families a very happy and safe Christmas and New Year.
I am so amazed by the positives that have shone through in such a challenging year. While some of the effects of this year will result in temporary changes to society and school life, some will be permanent. They all reinforce that we are now living, working and learning in
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Social Justice Helen Thomas | Director of Mission
#NOCHILDLEFTBEHIND
House of Welcome, a project of St Francis Social Services, invited school communities to show their support for children trapped in unfortunate and horrible circumstances, by taking part in the National Week of Solidarity in Term 3. The JPIC representatives, the Thinking and Advocacy class and some Year 7 students took the opportunity to raise awareness within school communities on the crisis facing those seeking asylum in Australia. The students formed a circle carrying the signs #NoChildLeftBehind and sat in silence for 10 minutes in solidarity with the 16,000 children and young people seeking asylum in Australia, and also their families, who have been adversely affected by the pandemic. It was recognition of a significant need in our community, as people are forced into destitution, unable to buy food, medicine or pay rent. This action taken by our students empowers them, reinforces the idea that their voice matters and that they can influence change. All students were also asked to join the 7000 others who have signed the latest petition that calls for action on this issue.
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DONATION DRIVE FOR WOMEN’S REFUGE
Some of my peers and I, in my Thinking and Advocacy class, were recently connected to Lou’s Place, a daytime shelter for women in crisis – escaping domestic abuse situations, homelessness, drug and alcohol addiction and more. We wanted to do something to help as the refuge is not government-funded and instead relies on donors and help from the general public. My Thinking and Advocacy teacher, Ms Virtich, thought that we could make small ‘gift bags’ that could be given to women who come to Lou’s Place. They consisted of products such as shavers, cotton buds, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap and sanitary items. As a class, we decided to do a year-wide drive, with each year class assigned to bring in a certain product. It was really amazing to see how Year 9 came together and donated numerous products. It was incredible to see the year group’s generosity and I’m really proud of the results. We made around 80 bags in total and they were delivered to Lou’s Place, located in Kings Cross. I’m so glad that we could do something to help such an amazing organisation and I think that my entire year group should be really happy with the results of this initiative. Lola Elsum Year 9
justice
Social Justice Helen Thomas | Director of Mission
LEBANON APPEAL
The Year 9 Thinking and Advocacy Class launched a campaign to help raise money for the people devastated by the explosion in Beirut on 4 August. Dominique Elias asked her fellow students if they would help her raise funds and promote awareness of the issue in Lebanon. By the end of a single lesson, the students had put together a campaign with a goal of raising $5000, which they achieved. They also sold ribbons and Junior School held a Denim Day to support the cause. The money was donated to the Australian Red Cross, who sent a letter and Certificate of Appreciation. Carolyn Piggott, from Australian Red Cross, wrote to the students saying, “Your student, Dominique, got in touch with me last week to let me know about your fundraising initiative – we are beyond grateful to her and the entire school community for supporting our Beirut Explosion Appeal.”
JESUIT REFUGEE SERVICES
Years 7-10 students showed their generosity and compassion through donations of food and essential items to the Jesuit Refugee Services (JRS). JRS undertakes services, accompaniment and advocacy to ensure that refugees have full rights while in exile, and to strengthen the protection afforded to refugees, internally displaced people, people seeking asylum and other forcibly displaced people. These items were sent to families in desperate need.
CHRISTMAS HAMPERS
The Loreto Kirribilli Christmas Hamper appeal is a vital part of our mission and Loreto values. The hampers provide gifts and books to families and children in the Holy Family Parish, Emerton, in most need at Christmas, especially during these difficult times. Although these families may be going through some difficult times at home, the sense of joy and belonging this appeal brings truly embodies the Christmas spirit.
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Entrepreneurship and Partnerships Inspiring Entrepreneurs Entrepreneurship was the focus of an exciting new initiative at Loreto Kirribilli this year as students in Year 9 were offered an insight into the world of business during the inaugural Entrepreneurs’ Day.
This enterprise and innovation forum saw students enthusiastically engage in a planned series of activities, workshops, guest speaker appearances and collaborative work focused on entrepreneurship. The goal of the day in Term 3 was to create opportunities, establish networks, develop capabilities and enterprise skills and build strategic partnerships within the Loreto network and beyond. Principal Mrs Anna Dickinson said the event was a great example of the school’s commitment to ensuring students are future ready. “The pace of change in the world is quite extraordinary. Children in our school will live in the 22nd Century and it is about preparing students to be future ready with the ability to thrive and to lead in this future world.” Mr Rob Magner, Social Science teacher and event organiser, stated, “The purpose of the day was to develop an inspiration for, and passion and understanding of, enterprise and entrepreneurship and how it may fit into the students’ present and future lives.” The girls heard from a range of inspirational speakers and ex-students on how they could create and make
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their own enterprise through their interest areas and values. The panel of speakers included Georgie Drury (’94), founder of MySpringDay, Nicole Noye (’84), Chief Executive Officer at Collective Wellness Group, Simone Longworth (’11), CEO of Birthday Fairy, Briella Brown (’12), Co-founder and Marketing Director of Your Closet and Avant Studio, Isabelle Kohout (’16), Team Leader Project Everest Adventures, Jessica Woodward (’12), Human Resources Executive at Dyson and Belinda Lucas, Gender and Social Inclusion Advisor, Impact Private Sector Partnerships at Palladium. The students were enthusiastic about what they learned and the benefits of the interaction with entrepreneurs saying, “…the speakers made it seem like becoming an entrepreneur was something achievable…being able to have discussions with real entrepreneurs and businesswomen and getting practical advice and ideas was just invaluable. They answered our questions and we felt we could really relate to them… the speakers really made me think that anything is possible and that what we do in our lifetime can change, what we want to do now might not be anything like what we end up doing and it is important to be able to recognise that.”
PATRICIA TAUSZIK AWARD
The spirit of entrepreneurship is now recognised each year through the Patricia Tauszik Award, first presented in 2019. Ms Patricia Tauszik was the previous owner of Tremayne which is now known as the Marian Centre. A passionate businesswoman and grandmother of ex-students, Skye Wilson (’12) and Brigitte Wilson (’15), the Patricia Tauszik Award celebrates Ms Tauszik’s legacy to inspire Loreto girls to consider a potential career in business. The Award is presented to two students who have demonstrated a flair and passion for entrepreneurialism through their commitment and engagement in Commerce, Mathematics and STEM. Each recipient is awarded $500 which may be used to support their business ideas. The Awards were last year presented by Patricia Tauszik’s daughter Bella Wilson, who said her mother would be delighted to be able to encourage students to explore their business potential. “She felt education was critical but recognised the importance of being independent. She just thought it was good to take some risks in business.” The recipients of the inaugural Patricia Tauszik Award 2019 were sisters Tess and Emily Adler and Grace Moore. 2020 recipients were Poppy O'Donnell and Presley Large. CANINE ACCESSORIES
Year 9 businesswomen and friends Poppy O’Donnell and Presley Large founded their fledgling business, Petite Ami, instead of finding casual jobs. “My parents said I should look for work but Poppy and I decided to work together rather than working for someone else,” explains Presley. “I have always wanted to work for myself,” adds Poppy.
winners
Patricia Tauszik Award 2020
Their eye-catching dog leads and accessories are well tested on their own pets – a Cavoodle and a Rhodesian Ridgeback - and the girls created a distinctive look for their products and set up an Instagram account to promote their wares. It was this social media presence that caught the eye of famous influencer Mia Freedman, the youngest editor of Cosmopolitan magazine, who has more than 167,000 followers on her own Instagram account. Ms Freedman offered the girls free access to her entrepreneur course - one that promotes young females who seek to develop their own businesses. Poppy and Presley's distinctive dog leads are handmade, durable, washable and strong enough for any size of dog. The girls have released two different ranges with seven different prints and hope to launch more in the near future.
entrepreneur 9|
Entrepreneurship and Partnerships OUR MUM CAN'T COOK Sisters Emily and Tess Adler were joint recipients of the Award in 2019. The twins run a successful cake company called 'Our Mum Can’t Cook' and promise their mum was included in choosing the company name!
winners
Patricia Tauszik Award 2019
The girls began experimenting with cake making in Year 9, submitting an entry to the Loreto Kirribilli Spring Fair cake competition. “Our friends and friends of friends started asking us to bake cakes and people started to say we should set up as a business,” explains Tess. “We got all our business through word of mouth and we had no social media advertising,” adds Emily. But as demand for their cakes continued to rise, the girls set up an Instagram page which now has more than 600 followers. They too were recipients of the Patricia Tauszik Award and used the money to buy new mixers. “We were very pleased to receive the award and being able to buy new equipment made a real difference to our business,” explains Tess. They scaled back business this year due to studying for their HSC but
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say they are still making around four cakes every weekend and could be making a lot more. “We have made three wedding cakes and cakes for birthdays, baptisms and lots of cupcakes,” says Tess. Emily notes that during COVID they had to alter their business to adapt to the requirements. “Everything had to be sealed and boxed so that we could then do a no contact delivery. We were so busy during COVID. People ordered Easter cakes and birthday cakes and we had to make more time for baking.” Tess considers herself the business brain whilst Emily brings the creative skills and loves to create original cake designs. “Sometimes people ask for cakes we have already made, or they draw out a design, or they just mention a theme or a flavour and we come up with ideas,” explains Emily. The girls say they work really well as
a team and they do credit their mum for their organisational skills and their dad and grandmother for their culinary skills. “We asked our mum to make cupcakes for us once but actually she just couldn’t do it. She really can’t cook so she doesn’t cook much at all,” they both laugh. However, she has assisted the girls when it comes to organising their schedules and helping them with deliveries. Now more than 500 cakes later, the girls plan to keep the baking business going as they move from school to their next adventure.
winner
Patricia Tauszik Award 2019
BOW ACCESSORIES
GELATO MESSINA PARTNERSHIP
Year 12 student Grace began making bow hair accessories for herself in Year 5. When her admiring friends inquired about them, she was happy to oblige and what began as fun grew into a business.
Year 10 STEM students at Loreto Kirribilli have been investigating environmental solutions to the cleaning processes of gelato giant Gelato Messina.
“I would buy the material and make bows, scrunchies, hair clips and sometimes even T-shirts,” explained Grace. She set up a website and Instagram page which attracted more than 3000 followers. Grace even made special edition accessories when a popular movie was released and themed her accessories to match. But Grace’s boutique was on hold this year as she concentrated on her HSC. She was delighted her entrepreneurial spirit was recognised when she was selected as a recipient of the Patricia Tauszik Award in 2019 and says the prize money, alongside the profits from her hair accessories business, will go towards her next venture. “I keep thinking about what I can do that no-one has done before but I will be able to develop my ideas more after the HSC.”
The project gave the girls an opportunity to apply their creative and critical thinking skills to an actual industry challenge with the potential to produce significant environmental benefits. They worked on a more water efficient solution to Gelato Messina’s scoop cleaning operation which uses an estimated 46,740 litres of water a day across its 19 stores – based on two scoop washers running per store for 10 hours a day. Dr Jonathon Mascorella, Coordinator of Innovation and eLearning, said, “The partnership has enabled the girls to bring together their knowledge of STEM and build on it with Agile and Lean practices, using the methodologies to quickly iterate over a problem, learn from the results and action them in build cycles that have weeded out issues quickly. The result has been some very thoughtful but risky ideas. Each team delivered on the bid idea and focused on the pain points Messina presented to prototype a strong product solution. Through the arranged Pitch session, the girls delivered their ideas to Messina and sought to contribute their Intellectual Property to the ultimate outcome. “ He added that the engaging and innovative project had pushed the boundaries of what was believed to be possible in education. “It made us realise the degree to which our students had grown; all are more willing to take risks, try new ideas, and test ideas until they work, rather than accepting the first idea because it looked like it would work. Using the Sprint methodology has leveraged the power of risk taking in a safe environment, so students can be assisted to make the most of a difficult task.“
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Innovation Centre Update cutting of the first sod The commencement of the construction phase of the Innovation Centre began on 12 November 2020. This significant project milestone was marked by a Cutting of the First Sod Ceremony, held to signal the start of the build. Principal Mrs Anna Dickinson proudly 'broke ground', watched on by key members of the Loreto Kirribilli community, project managers Bloompark Consulting and building partner Richard Crookes Constructions.
NAME THE CRANE COMPETITION
The arrival of an 82 metre crane on the Innovation Centre construction site on 3 December 2020 created a great deal of excitement in Loreto Kirribilli Junior School. The crane, which has a 55 metre arm, is required to transfer materials and equipment onto the Loreto Kirribilli site and will be utilised for the duration of the build. Junior School students were invited to submit their entry to a ‘Name the Crane’ competition and explain their choice in 25 words or less. More than 250 entries were received and ‘Lottie’, put forward by Year 6 student Lucy, was selected as the winner following a vote by students and staff.
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“I chose Lottie as the Bob the Builder Crane is called Lofty. In the interest of empowering women, I did the female version of Lofty which is Lottie,” explained Lucy.
Future Learning professional development This year has seen 97 Loreto Kirribilli teachers take up the opportunity to become accredited with the Mini Certificate of Gifted Education (Mini COGE). Through a series of professional learning sessions and discussions led by academics from the University of NSW throughout the year, the teaching staff has focused on ensuring students from Kindergarten to Year 12 are sufficiently challenged in their learning. “This course is about how to cater for all students in our classrooms and how to differentiate for all their needs. It is about good teaching and raising the bar for students,” explains Desilee Tait Gifted and Talented Coordinator for Kindergarten to Year 12. The professional development has been conducted through a series of face-to-face and online modules and builds on the extensive work that Loreto Kirribilli already undertakes in this area. The Mini COGE will now be offered on a continuous basis to all new members of staff. “In this way it will become ingrained into our teaching and the Mini COGE will be deeply embedded into Loreto Kirribilli, complementing our pedagogy,” she adds. “This UNSW certification is a significant achievement and testament to the dedication of our teachers and their drive to cater for the particular needs of all of our students,” stated Daniel Mahon, Deputy Principal. Teachers from Kindergarten to Year 12 have embraced the accreditation process and welcomed the additional skills and understanding they acquired through the sessions this year.
The Mini COGE course gave me an opportunity to reflect on how we meet our high achievers, where they are on their Musical journey and promote rich advancement opportunities for the girls. Amelia Granturco, Junior School Music Teacher
Mini COGE has allowed me to reflect on all that we do at Loreto Kirribilli in PDHPE – how we shape our programs and learning opportunities for our students. The capacity to grow in this is boundless and is a constant evolution which is important with the dynamic nature of education. The validation of that was evident in each component of the Mini COGE and emphasised that we must continue to build on the foundation we have established. Yolande Jury, PDHPE Teacher and Acting Student Leadership Coordinator
The Mini COGE Twilight session was a wonderful hands on workshop that made me as a teacher reflect upon our programs and how I teach my students. It was relevant and practical with the facilitator assisting us in how to think and cater for our students’ needs. It was a great opportunity to work collaboratively with our colleagues and share our experiences in teaching. Isabella Fabrizio, Visual Arts Teacher
Attending Mini COGE highlighted how important it is to cater for all students in my classroom. Concepts based programs easily allow me as an educator to create meaningful lessons for all students while extending and promoting critical and creative thinking. This course provided me with the skills to promote risk taking in our students and encourage lateral thinking. Nikki Kingsley-Jones, Year 6 Teacher
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Junior School Learning MARTIN LOBO I ACTING HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL While the focus in the earlier edition of Spirit this year was primarily on our response to COVID-19, the lockdown, remote learning and some of the lessons learnt, this edition consists of many stories of a return to normalcy and of excitement and celebrations on many fronts. The annual Year 6 Night of Excellence morphed into a Day of Excellence in 2020. Year 6 girls set up their project models in the Gonzaga Barry Centre, in readiness for a captive audience of staff and our Kindergarten to Year 5 students. Luella Roberts and Arabella Gray, two of our finest Year 6 champion environmental advocates, are to be commended for their commitment to and passion for sustainability, and their desire to make a difference. Thanks to their many initiatives, from 2021 there will be new student leadership positions to promote environmental sustainability awareness in the Junior School. The highly anticipated Mission Day was a resounding success this year. Mission Day aims to raise awareness and much-needed funds that will make a difference to the lives of many children who are not as fortunate as our own. Thanks to the generous donations from our parents and staff, $10, 279 goes directly to Mary Ward International. A new award has been introduced in the Junior School this year in the form of a certificate, entitled the Mary MacKillop Award, to recognise genuine acts of kindness, empathy, exemplary leadership and initiative shown by students spontaneously and without seeking attention or recognition, in and out of school. Students can be nominated by staff
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or their own peers. These actions are those that reflect what Mary MacKillop would describe as “never see a need without doing anything about it”. So far this year, 12 of our students have received this award and been acknowledged at various assemblies. The Year 6 Graduation and Thanksgiving Mass with parents in attendance was a highlight given the COVID-safe restrictions. Let me conclude with a vote of thanks to my amazing team of teachers and support staff for their care, dedication and commitment to the wellbeing of all our students at the Junior School. Have a happy and holy Christmas.
Life in the Junior School continues to be filled with happy faces, lots of colour and busy-ness! The weeks raced by with lots of wonderful school activities – albeit in these unusual times – and we managed to keep the main events on the calendar in action. We thank the wonderful work (and patience) of Jake Bleier, our Audio Visual Manager extraordinaire, who truly supported us in all of the online livestreaming of events from assemblies and liturgies to our Year 6 Day of Excellence and Mission Day, and even the Book Week Parade. This connection enabled our parents, who have been unable to come on campus, to see what the girls have been doing. Here are a few highlights from the Junior School over the past term. Linda Walburn Assistant to the Head of Junior School
COVID MASK MAKING FOR OTHERS
Many Junior School and Senior School girls, teachers and their families willingly supported a special project in Term 3 in the service of others. Lizzie Fuller in Year 5 Gold, and her mum, Dr Catroina McNeil, who works with cancer patients at the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, had a spark of an idea to help others during the COVID-19 pandemic. They saw a need for reusable masks to be made available to both patients and those visiting them to keep their spirits up, reserving hospital masks for doctors and surgery use. Senior and Junior Schools joined forces to sew masks and families helped at home; the Kearney family made over 100 in their home! Loreto Junior School proudly presented Dr McNeil with 240 reusable, hand sewn face masks to support the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse.
2020 MISSION DAY
Our Junior School Mission Day started with a student led Liturgy in the GBC, livestreamed to our parents, and then moved to the fun Year 6 Market stalls ranging from beauty products, slushies, lolly bags, raffles, a movie tent and even a haunted house on our top playground. In accordance with the school’s COVID-19 protocols to avoid cash handling, the wonderful parents nominated a donation amount for their daughter to spend on the day. These dollar amounts were converted into specific Mission Day LK money to be spent on the day with purchases at the Year 6 stalls. The money raised provides support and help to the disadvantaged, empowering communities to lead their own development including vocational training, health promotion, community education and income generation. Being True Women for Others was the theme of the day.
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Junior School Learning YEAR 6 DAY OF EXCELLENCE In the year of 2020, Year 6 chose to focus on overcoming adversity to represent significant individuals. The theme for the 2020 Day of Excellence involved a deep and broad study of one person who has overcome adversity to be successful in their chosen field. This individual would have pioneered a new idea, innovated something new, introduced a school of thought, become an expert or leader in their field, for example a scientist, humanitarian, politician or doctor – an individual who has had a positive influence on our lives and the progress of humanity. The girls had to research and recreate themselves as their chosen personality. They produced a short one-minute film that was collated to share with parents online.
Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani education activist who at the age of 17 became the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize after surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban. She once said, “I raise up my voice, not so I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard.” Lucy Henry
Dr Sanduk Ruit, also known as ‘the god of sight,’ or the ‘barefoot surgeon’, due to his famous barefoot operating style, has restored the life changing gift of sight to over 14,000 people all over Asia. Coming from humble beginnings, his achievements are absolutely incredible. He continues to inspire those who are underprivileged, so that they can, as he once said, “from little things, big things grow.”
Adam Goodes, a proud indigenous man, has made a change throughout the AFL community. When racist comments were directed
Luella Roberts
Ruby Dickerson
at him he took this opportunity to make a difference. Being an AFL superstar, 2014 Australian of the Year and Founder of the Goodes O'Loughlin Foundation, he has accomplished things that others can only dream of doing.
LORETO REACHING OUT TO LORETO
During the COVID lockdown in Victoria, the Junior School staff and students were able to make contact and support our friends at the Junior School at Loreto Mandeville Hall, Toorak. Teachers emailed and talked via Microsoft Teams sharing ideas and teaching resources for remote learning. Year 6 students wrote beautiful letters of support and we had many lovely emails back from our teacher colleagues in Melbourne. Students enjoyed sharing videos and photos with the classes too. We hope the connection between the two Junior Schools will continue beyond 2020.
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100 DAYS OF KINDY
JUNIOR SCHOOL MUSIC MAKING
Kindergarten enjoyed celebrating their 100th day of school and all we have achieved this year. The day was filled with many activities based around the number 100 and a special visit from Mrs Dickinson. Kindergarten particularly enjoyed writing about what life may be like when they are 100 years old and making an accompanying self-portrait using interesting fabrics and materials. They constructed houses with collaborative partners using 100 blocks and made some groovy glasses to celebrate the day. Celebrating such a significant milestone was lots of fun and each and every girl should be incredibly proud of how much she has achieved.
This semester has seen the creation of our very special Kindergarten Instrumental Program. Each of our Kindergarten students was given her own violin. Every Friday they met with three string specialists for their group violin lessons. They learnt the E string, A string and D string, playing with their bow, and then moved onto playing in first position. Their first performance was at the Kindergarten Assembly. Bravo!
JUNIOR SCHOOL BOOK WEEK
Book Week kicked off in the Junior School on Friday 16 October. The theme this year was Curious Creatures. Wild Minds. Students came dressed in relation to the theme or as a book character. They participated in a variety of competitions including Kindergarten-Year 2 Colouring Competition, Kindergarten-Year 6 Poster Competition, Years 3-6 Writing Competition and Guess the Winner Competition of the shortlisted books nominated by the Children’s Book Council of Australia.
Music making, and specifically choirs, had to alter their rehearsal schedules owing to COVID protocols this year. But as a silver lining story, this was turned into a positive experience as students were able to use this timeslot on Wednesday mornings to share a performance. The new Junior School Music Mornings allowed girls who were learning an instrument at school to be able to perform a song for their peers. This weekly opportunity to celebrate the work the girls have put into learning their instrument throughout the year proved successful for both performers and the audience, it may become a permanent fixture in the Junior School Music Calendar.
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Senior School Learning CALL TO ACTION
THE PRINCIPAL’S WRITING AWARD
Every student from Years 7-12 submits an entry to the Principal’s Writing Awards that is focused on the Mary Ward value for the year – this year Verity. Congratulations to those selected as runners up and award winners: Award Winner
Runner Up
Year 7
Tessa Van Vliet
Clementine Wills
Year 8
Lucy Ronan
Amelia Reichel
Year 9
Meckenzie Lai
Beth Lonie
Year 10
Lydia Colla
Hannah Merlin
Year 11 Advanced English
Sarah Munstermann
Bridget Currie
Year 11 Standard English
Zoe Witts
Year 12 Meg Lonie Advanced English Year 12 Standard English
Alexandra Butt
Phoebe Price
Special congratulations to our prize winners, who will have their work published in our annual publication, Loreto Pens.
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Geographers are interested in the world around them at a variety of scales. The micro school scale, their suburb, their city, their region, state, country and the earth as a whole. We study People and Places from a variety of perspectives in a bid to effectively manage the way we interact with the environment and create futures that benefit people, societies, cultures and the natural and built environments. More than that, we are also called to action. The School has these same values which Geographers understand as a result of the work of Mary Ward and the Loreto Sisters. Imogen Reichel is a Year 12 Geography student, who has achieved much, in a no nonsense way, that has inspired many of us here at Loreto Kirribilli. She was concerned by the crisis in Yemen and other geopolitical hotspots to such an extent that she downloaded, used and is still using the FreeRice and ShareTheMeal Apps. In addition, she enlisted others to do so and initiated a whole school approach to their use. She continues to encourage people to engage and I recommend you download and use the apps yourselves. One is a no cost solution that encourages learning and the other involves a low cost contribution. These apps, and the World Food Programme responsible for them, have won the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize. Imogen is also a recipient of the Sydney University Future Innovators Award which recognises leadership, critical thinking and academic achievement. We congratulate her on her initiative and accomplishments. Keith Hopkins Social Science Coordinator
Senior School Learning JO Bleby, ALISON Kirk AND IVAN Lucic-Jozak I HISTORY
NATIONAL HISTORY CHALLENGE
This year for the first time, Year 9 History Elective students undertook the National History Challenge essay writing competition centred on the notion of 'Contestability'. The standard of student work submitted for the 2020 competition was incredibly high with six Loreto Kirribilli student works selected to be entered. Two of our students were chosen by the National History Challenge panel to go through to the State finals. Ariane Saywell’s essay on Julius Caesar: A utilitarian revolutionary or a ruthless tyrant? represented the Ancient histories excellently. But it was Stella Constable’s essay on The Dismissal of Gough Whitlam in 1975 that won the State competition with her research and essay being deemed the best in the State. As the State winner for 2020, Stella attended the competition ceremony at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park on 3 December 2020. Stella commented, “I felt it was good to research a subject closer to home that was part of Australian history. I didn’t know much about the topic when I initially chose it but it was one of the most interesting things I have ever written about. I felt like an investigator and just loved the problem solving aspect of the research.” Students reflected on the experience:
The National History Challenge was one of the most engaging tasks I have had to complete. It gave me complete freedom to choose a subject of my choice which was a unique but beneficial experience.
With the open-ended theme of 'Contested Histories' and the opportunity to write an essay on whatever our historical hearts desired, the sky was the limit. Difficult as it was to decide on just one, the freedom to explore the contesting perspectives of history was a worthwhile trade.
Ariane Saywell
Beth Lonie
research
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Senior School Learning
SCIENCE AWARD WINNER
SCIENCE WEEK
Beatrix Farley in Year 8 was selected as the winner of the Earth & Environmental Science (7-8) category of the Young Scientist Award for her project on Fungi, and awarded second place in the Sponsored Award from the National Measurement Institute.
National Science Week with the theme of Deep Blue: innovations for the future of our oceans, was celebrated this year with liquid nitrogen demonstrations and water rockets launched from the front drive during lunchtime to demonstrate Newton’s Laws of Motion. Students also participated in Science Graffiti and took part in Science Week Kahoots.
Science teacher Dr Raelene Giffney commented, "Beatrix is a gifted ecologist with an inquisitive nature and a passion for environmental research. The Student Research Project conducted by all students in Year 8 provided Beatrix with the freedom to design and conduct her own project. “All the ideas, background research, data collection and analysis were done independently and under restricted circumstances due to COVID-19. Coming from a background in Ecological Research myself, it has been a joy to guide her through her research project and I am extremely impressed by her commitment and talent." Beatrix chose to study nature at a local reserve due to it's proximity to her home when movement was restricted due to COVID-19. She noted, “I've always loved nature and I wanted to choose a topic that related to that.” After noticing fungi at the nearby reserve, Beatrix decided to investigate further. She explained, “I think it is very interesting that you can only see them with your naked eye for a short period of time, yet for the rest of the year they just survive under the ground.” Beatrix hopes to continue with the fungi project and plans to study the bush reserve for a longer period of time to see when the fungi first emerge and then collate her data and make it available to others.
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ASTRONOMY EVENING
Years 11 and 12 Physics and Science Extension students gathered for an evening of astronomy in Term 3. Thanks to a beautiful clear night and the use of the Loreto Kirribilli telescope, students were treated to some awe inspiring sights. This included the Alpha Centauri (the closest star system to our solar system), the Jewel Box star cluster, the Omega Centauri globular cluster (the central remains of an old dwarf galaxy), some faint cloud patterns on Jupiter and its four largest moons, and the beautiful rings of Saturn and its largest moon, Titan. Josh Clark Science Coordinator
Future Problem Solving Hannah Merlin, Lydia Colla, Cordelia Morton & Imogen Wills I YEar 10
Future Problem Solving has been exciting, fun and challenging as teams have explored topics from ‘Gamification’ to ‘Living in Poverty’. Global Issues Problem Solving (or GIPS) is the competition which many students from Years 7 to 10 have joined this year and we have enjoyed it immensely. As one of two Year 10 teams, this year we moved into the senior secondary category for the GIPS program and were challenged to extend our critical and creative thinking to compete at a higher level. We also encouraged younger students to join the program, resulting in Loreto Kirribilli putting forward seven teams for the Qualifying Problem. Our team was given the opportunity to coach these younger students using past topics and problems on ‘International Travel’ and ‘Space’. By the time we participated in the Qualifying Problem, all the Loreto Kirribilli GIPS teams were well equipped with their team research on the given topic of ‘Gamification’. We were really excited when we found out that three teams had qualified for the national finals, with both Year 10 teams and one Year 9 team progressing from the Qualifying Round. Although nationals this year could not be held in person, it was still an exciting opportunity to further develop our skills in the future problem solving program. The topic, ‘Living in Poverty’, was particularly interesting with many problems and solutions to discover. One of the benefits of Future Problem Solving is its requirement that we look at real world issues from a number of different viewpoints
and that we develop an understanding of numerous aspects of a given problem. Researching poverty especially expanded our horizons and general knowledge of the complexity and severity of a number of different forms of poverty. We learnt about the difference between income and wealth inequality and about the importance of understanding how relative poverty can impact an individual in a more developed nation such as Australia. The National’s problem this year centred on access to basic resources for residents in future India. More specifically, the future scene depicted a young girl whose family could not afford adequate water distributed from an automated system. To combat this problem, our team developed an action plan involving water gathering nanotechnology to allow families independence from the wider manipulative system. Our team was delighted to discover that we had progressed from the Nationals to the international competition which will be held virtually in June 2021. Future Problem Solving this year has been excellent and has been made possible by Dr Giffney, Ms D’Angelo and Mr Jozak. Congratulations to all teams who participated and we’ll see you next year!
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AHIGS Virtual Festival of Speech 2020 JUDI HURST I PUBLIC SPEAKING CONVENOR The final Public Speaking event for 2020, the AHIGS Festival of Speech, was this year run as a virtual competition. Celebration was in order as we rejoiced in gaining sixth place overall, with ninth place in the Junior Division and third place in the Senior Division. Our school entered the Current Affairs section, Junior and Senior Poetry, Junior and Senior Readings and Junior and Senior Public Speaking. Four of our students were selected for the final held on Saturday 24 October; Charlotte Magill in Junior Poetry, Raquel Gerber in Senior Poetry, Olivia Scott in Junior Readings and Rosie Paton in Senior Public Speaking. Our Current Affairs team of Lydia Colla, Hannah Merlin and Imogen Wills also presented on the Saturday as the impromptu nature of this section required both the first round and final to be held on the same day. Our results on the day were excellent. Raquel Gerber was placed first in Senior Poetry with a memorised, powerful recitation of the poem People like us by Emtithal Mahmoud and an impromptu poem by Kenneth Slessor. Our Current Affairs team placed second in the final. The final topic Loreto chose to discuss was ethical issues
for citizens versus sustaining only health in the COVID lockdown. They also needed to anchor their discussion around a statement, “From a distance the world looks blue...” The team came second in a field of 19 teams. Olivia Scott represented the school in Junior Readings and was placed fifth in this section. Her readings were The 2016 Australia Day speech by Deng Thiat Adut and the Bible passage John 9: 1-12. Rosie Paton delivered a most amusing and engaging prepared speech for the Senior Public Speaking section where she was placed fifth. The topic Rosie selected from three options was “Taking it back.” Overall it was a most rewarding and uplifting day for our talented public speakers. We have now set a high benchmark for 2021. A final word from the Public Speaking Captains for 2020, Lucy Rathbun and Bridget Currie. “Although it may seem daunting at first, public speaking is a lot of fun. The feeling of adrenaline before you get up to speak along with the pride you feel watching your friends’ speeches as an audience member are what public speaking is all about.”
Ethics Olympiad Marisa Virtich I Gifted & Talented Teacher Two teams entered the NSW Middle School Ethics Olympiad in Term 4 with both performing well and the Loreto Kirribilli Gold team defeating opponents from schools across the state, including James Ruse and North Sydney Boys High schools, to win the competition and qualify for Nationals. The teams had to analyse eight cases during the all day, online event with four rounds of 45 minute discussions. The winning Team 2 – Loreto Gold included Sybilla Delaney, Josephine Leete, Annabelle Ross and Emma Turner, all in Year 8 and Georgia Thompson in Year 7. The Blue team did not place but was given very strong, positive feedback from the university philosophy lecturers, who adjudicated from around the globe! Team 1 - Loreto Blue included Sophie Grzina and Lucy Hui both in Year 9, Scarlett Kevin and Amelia Reichel, in Year 8 and Hannah Pospisil in Year 7.
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HSC Showcase Drama
MUSIC
Year 12 Drama students presented a superb range of twelve Individual Performances, a wonderful opportunity to showcase their talents in the lead up to the NESA Drama Practical Examination. The HSC Individual Performances were livestreamed from the school Auditorium this year as there could be no live audience due to COVID restrictions. Emily Gardner presented a wonderful portfolio of theatre reviews and Nikki Eghlimi an original and evocative Director’s Folio for the play The Visit.
The HSC Music 1 and 2 classes hosted a showcase that was livestreamed from Centenary Hall. The occasion demonstrated the vast array of musical talent from the Class of 2020, with students performing repertoire from both their elective and core performance programs which were assessed externally by NESA markers in Week 8 of Term 3. The performers showcased numbers across a range of instruments including voice, drum kit, alto saxophone, clarinet, flute and piano. Students took the opportunity to further refine their performance techniques such as expression, balance and communication in preparation for their HSC practical examination the following week. The performances also reflected their stylistic understanding of chosen topics that included Music from the Romantic Period, Jazz Fusion, Art Music of the 20th and 21st Centuries as well as Popular Music.
We congratulate the HSC Drama class for their OnSTAGE nominations. The following students were considered for inclusion in the OnSTAGE Program for 2021:
congratulations Anneke Eales
Dolly
Eleanor Marr
Exit the Queen
Amelia Warburton
Jenny
Phoebe Price
Delia’s Clothes
Mat Clausen Performing Arts Coordinator
Throughout the year, Music 1 and 2 displayed great resilience as artists, having to adapt to the changes made by NESA to comply with the ever changing COVID-19 situation. The greatest restriction was that students were unable to perform with more than one accompanist, impacting significantly on students who had begun preparing pieces with a small ensemble in mind. Despite this, Year 12 embraced the revised guidelines and performed with one accompanist or, where necessary, used a backing track to capture the essence of the song, in many ways, revealing a greater sense of maturity as a musician. Jacob Sewell Private Music Convenor
resilience
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HSC TAS Showcase Michelle Payne I TAS Coordinator The TAS Expo 2020 was a wonderful showcase of a diverse range of Design & Technology Major Design Projects and was a testament to the students’ effort and creative thinking in what has been a challenging year. The students showed grit and determination in the face of changing timelines and should be proud of their achievements. Their works looked fantastic both in physical form and the ‘new normal’ livestreamed event.
Ellen Russell
Isabella Shirley
Isobel Delany
Cella McGrath
Lily Young
Emily Adler
An inspirational speech given by ex-student Isabelle Kohout ('16) outlined the possibilities and rewards that lie ahead for these students in the realm of Technology and Engineering, emphasising that the world needs creative thinkers! Thank you to the class teachers Dr Jonathon Mascorella and Mr Richard Brown along with the whole TAS Department for supporting these students and Design & Technology within the school. Special thanks to Jake Bleier for enabling parents and families the opportunity to see the projects and students in carefully edited videos. The tagline for the exhibition, The Future is Bright, was an apt description for these students and it was heartening and admirable to see the selfless approach to designing for others' needs shown by these girls.
congratulations Shape Nominations Emily Adler
Charlotte Hattersley
Faith Michael
Isabella Shirley
Madeleine Croker
Sophie Klem
Isobel Oxenham
Cassidy Wood
Isobel Delany
Cella McGrath
Ellen Russell
Lily Young
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HSC Visual Arts Showcase Craig Malyon I visual ARTS Coordinator “Creativity takes courage,” Henri Matisse. What the French artist said is only the tip of the iceberg for the Year 12 Visual Arts students of 2020. The amalgam of courage, patience, time, effort, humility, skills, resilience and self-worth ensures the stewardship of creativity. Year 12 Visual Arts at Loreto Kirribilli know and appreciate the creative action. They know their Bodies of Work are the product of such creativity that is differentiated towards their interests, values and beliefs. The Year 12 Visual Arts Expo testified to their creativity. It was a showcase of excellence and the students should be duly congratulated on this achievement. It is the hard work of both teachers and students that exemplified this year’s exhibition.
Sophie Shirriff
Milly Kellick
Isabelle Berry
Ellen Russell
Meg Lonie
Abbey O’Donnell
Sophie Klem
congratulations Art Express Selections
Art Express Nominations
Charlotte Collins
Ava Bernardi
Kara Howard
Abbey O'Donnell
Ellen Russell
Isabelle Berry
Zoe Hutchinson
Lucy Owens
Sophie Shirriff
Josie Connaghan
Sophie Klem
Jessica Tannous
Lily Eales
Meg Lonie
Charlotte Tiffin
Georgie Eggleton
Mimi O'Brien
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Music Festival Adrienne Grimes I Music Festival Director The 2020 Music Festival was one like no other. Inspired by Mary Ward’s reminder to “See and speak your truth,” the Loreto Kirribilli community rose to the challenge of adapting to the restrictions placed upon us by COVID-19 to produce an online Music Festival. Solo Adjudications and House Choir entries were individually filmed and collated to produce a remarkable display of talent which demonstrated a continuation of the celebration of joy and music making to which we are accustomed.
We were so proud of the choir and to see all our hard work pay off with the winning song was more than we could have ever winners asked for. House Choir Harper Gracie & Jessica FitzGerald
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The spectacular Finale featured students, staff and families joining together to create a wonderful show of Loreto Spirit and Felicity. Congratulations to all the performers who contributed to the 2020 Music Festival.
We were extremely proud of the spirit and enthusiasm that the girls displayed and their contribution in creating a Music Festival we will remember forever.
The adversity that faced the 2020 Music Festival has proven that through anything, spirit and ambition can create fabulous opportunities and music!
We will be forever grateful for the spirit of Ward which was overwhelming and seen in the enthusiasm and active participation in House Choirs and adjudications, helping to promote positivity.
Grace Poon & Emma Sheller
Katherine St Julian & Eimear Harding
Abigail Sage & Luella Breen
winners
House Spirit & Festival Shield
Wellbeing
YEAR 7 PASTORAL DAY
R U OK? DAY
Year 7 enjoyed fun Pastoral Days in Terms 3 and 4. The days were fantastic opportunities for us to meet other girls through a range of activities and games. Our camp scheduled for Term 1 had to be cancelled due to COVID and this is usually a great way for us to make friends from outside our year classes. As this opportunity was unavailable, Year 7 had some fun days completely filled by activities. We split into 12 groups and were put with randomly selected girls from our grade, many of us not knowing any of the others in our group. We got to know each other through working as a team to complete a series of challenges - from solving puzzling brain teasers to seeing how many people we could fit on a skipping rope. We all had heaps of fun and got to know some other girls we would otherwise never have met.
Mental health awareness and consideration for the wellbeing of others was the objective on R U OK? Day. Staff and students enthusiastically joined the ‘Chit chat over a KitKat’ campaign. The girls were encouraged to look for any changes in behaviour among friends and family and advised on how to start a conversation and listen without judgement. Ask, Listen, Encourage Action and Check In.
Emily Afaras & Xanthe Job
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Graduating Class of 2020 charlotte ross I 2020 school captain In a year that has been anything but conventional, our graduation was the perfect fit; a graduation that took place over three months and one that I am sure the Class of 2020 will look back on fondly for many years to come.
Reflecting on our Year 12 experience with the pandemic, one of our greatest collective fears as a cohort was that we would not be able to graduate together. As the days drew closer, and plans continued to change rapidly, we all continued to hope that we would be crowned together, with all of us in the same room and hopefully even our parents present to witness the event. It is with great gratitude that I can say that we were able to ‘graduate twice’, both together in our beloved Centenary Hall in September, and in front of our parents at the ICC in Darling Harbour in November, followed by an incredible night at Qudos Bank Arena joined by parents, family members and partners. Our final week of school in September commenced with our final year class as a cohort, complete with awards, a Sound of Music rendition by our year class teachers, photo slideshows and our Year 12 video. The final address from our Year Coordinator Ms Partington brought many of us to tears, reflecting on the four years we have spent under her guidance, and how far we have come as a year group. In accordance with tradition, we then ventured up the Chapel stairs to be graced by the spectacular view from the Chapel tower; one I am sure we will all remember.
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Following this was the second year of the ‘Bucket Ceremony’ shared between Year 12 and Year 11 students. We were able to devise an outdoor ceremony, separating year groups, so that Years 12 and 11 could come together for this special day. On behalf of the class of 2020, we wish the Class of 2021 the best of luck, and hope that these ‘how to thrive in Year 12' buckets will assist throughout the year. The Graduation Ceremony is always a day of love, spirit and gratitude for Loreto Kirribilli girls, but for the Class of 2020, with the prospect of being seated in the hall together seeming far-fetched at times, the day was one of great emotion and gratitude for our time at school. After an Ex-Students' event over Zoom in the foyer and a morning tea on the front drive, we made our way down to Centenary Hall, which was decorated beautifully with flowers, for our first Jubilarian Procession. After being crowned by incoming captains Harper Gracie and Sophie Bateman, with our families excitedly watching from home over livestream, we travelled to the Chapel, with the Senior School forming a guard of honour.
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For the first time in many years, our Graduation Mass was celebrated in the school Chapel, which ultimately made it even more special, as we have experienced so many beautiful occasions in the Chapel over the years. But even as we were gifted graduation bears to sign, we knew it was not completely over, as after the HSC we would be back together again at the ICC. With academic, as well as sporting and community achievements being recognised, the ceremony was beautifully run and will be held close to our hearts. Nearly two months after our first Graduation Day, the Graduation Dinner at Qudos Bank Arena on 19 November was a night to remember for girls and families alike. We were lucky enough to be able to dance with our friends, partners and families to celebrate what has been a challenging but incredible year, and we were all incredibly grateful for the organisation of the staff at Loreto Kirribilli.
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On behalf of all of Year 12, we are indescribably grateful for the efforts of Mrs Dickinson, Mr Mahon, the School Executive and all of the staff at Loreto Kirribilli, whose hard work made these events possible. Our graduation exceeded all expectations, and was a perfect way to conclude our schooling. It has been an honour and a privilege to be a part of the Class of 2020, and to be a student of Loreto Kirribilli. I am so proud of this school and how the entirety of the school community makes an effort to support each other, shown in our beautiful graduation ceremonies. Graduating from this wonderful school has been bittersweet for all of us. So thank you Loreto for six incredible years. That is it from me, and my team of Zoe, Jenna, Anneke and Soph, and we all look forward to our ongoing connections with the school through the Ex-Students’ Union. I am both lucky and proud to call myself a Loreto girl.
Message from the School Captain Harper Gracie I School Captain 2021 Loreto Kirribilli is defined by the values of Felicity, Verity, Sincerity, Freedom and Justice. Inspired by these values and our foundress Mary Ward, Loreto Kirribilli girls are called to be ‘women of the future’. Our education fosters academic growth and teaches us that as Loreto women, we have a responsibility to make this world a better place.
Loreto Kirribilli is part of a worldwide network of IBVM schools, seven of which are located in Australia. Not only do we receive the gift of an excellent education but, through Loreto Kirribilli, we are provided with a pathway into life filled with endless opportunities and connections. Since commencing at Loreto Kirribilli in Year 7, I have been grateful for the incredible community spirit present in every aspect of school life and believe this to be one of the most special parts of my schooling. There are so many traditions, such as our annual Music Festival and Water Ballet competition, which demonstrate the spirit in our Loreto Kirribilli community. Whether it be through singing the school song at assemblies or cheering for your House at sports' carnivals, the Loreto Kirribilli spirit is unlike any other. There is also a strong emphasis on student wellbeing. Each girl has an extensive network of support including personal academic coaches, Year Wellbeing Coordinators and House Academic Care Coordinators. As a student, having all these avenues to seek help makes school life so much easier as we know there is always someone to
talk to. We also have a Big Sister Little Sister mentoring program which allows younger girls to have their own student mentor and develops coaching and mentoring skills in senior girls. Academically, our school equips girls with the skills they will need for the future with a focus on communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity. Loreto Kirribilli has the most incredible team of teachers who support their students not only academically but also develop our knowledge beyond the classroom. Each student is given the freedom to focus on whatever inspires them and is supported by the teachers to grow and develop. Our school encourages each girl to express, build upon and discover their individual gifts. This is done through the existence of countless extra-curricular activities which are open to every student. From debating to rowing to robotics, there is something for each student to experience. This sharing of each other’s individual talents brings ‘Felicity’ to life.
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Sport
WATER POLO
TOUCH FOOTBALL
After an abrupt end to the season for Water Polo players in Term 1, our teams were thrilled to be back in full swing as a ‘blue swarm’ of Loreto costumes hit the pools of Sydney.
A year of many changes for Touch Football.
The Loreto Kirribilli teams enjoyed great success as our Junior First team was victorious in the CGSSSA Water Polo tournament. Undefeated, they met Stella Maris Manly in the final, and won by three goals. There are many talented junior players. Rose Garvey, Indie Smith and Isabelle Bannon, all Year 7, have represented our Junior First team, whilst Rose stepped up to substitute in goals for the Senior Firsts. She is the first girl from Year 7 to ever play for the Senior Firsts. Our Senior teams have risen to the challenge of playing in the highest grades. Layla Smith in Year 9 in particular has impressed us all with her attacking and defensive play. Layla has already been identified by representative coaches for her athletic skills and game awareness. The Term 4 competition saw two teams finish with undefeated seasons and notably both teams were coached by ex-students. Lara Walsh ('18) has led her Year 10 students to exciting comefrom-behind wins in an exciting season. This year they won the IGSSA competition and were crowned Premiers. Stephanie Carroll ('19) and Veronique Becker ('19) coached the Year 7 team to an undefeated season winning the Grand Final and their first IGSSA title. Chris Hook Water Polo Convenor
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Term 1 started off the year with our teams able to participate and compete in the Eastern Suburbs competition. During Term 1 our CGSSSA selected teams competed in the 2020 CGSSSA Touch Football Championships at Queens Park. Our Senior Squad had some great successes, finishing third overall. Term 4 was a term of huge participation numbers and significant change for our girls and we have been able to adjust our training venues to provide our girls with more opportunity and space. With a play book that has been developed for consistency, the aim is that our Year 7 students are running the same plays as our seniors. Therefore, as we move through the years, we are not starting from scratch every year and we continue to build the program. Term 4 also brought about a new competition structure for our players and parents. With COVID restrictions not allowing us to compete in the Eastern Suburbs competition, the IGSSA Northern Hub was born. Being localised has meant less travel for some, a consistency in venue for most and for many teams the opportunity to play amongst and against friends due to year group restrictions within the competitions. We look forward to the continued growth of the program. Chris Fryar Touch Football Convenor
Sport YALE UNIVERSITY OFFER
Year 12 student Lily Eales has been offered a place at Yale University in the United States with her rowing achievements helping to create the opportunity alongside her excellent academic and leadership achievements. Lily’s involvement in the Loreto Kirribilli Rowing Program, overseen by Head Coach, Lachlan Allen, was instrumental in creating this significant pathway, enabling Lily to demonstrate her capacity as an elite sportswoman. Heaton House Captain Lily has competed at national level in Rowing and is the Australian National Champion in two events.
Credit Rowing Australia/Delly Carr
In 2019 Lily won the Gold Meda in the Under 17 individual class Women’s Single Scull, and is the Australian National Champion. This followed on from her success in this class in the 2019 NSW State Championships where she secured a Silver Medal. In 2019, her Women’s Quad Scull became the Gold Medal Australian National Champions. In the Coxed Four, Lily’s crew secured the Bronze Medal in the 2019 NSW State Championships for the Women’s Under 19 Coxed Four. She simultaneously rowed in the Under 17 Women’s Coxed Eight and secured the 2019 NSW State Championship Silver Medal and the 2018 Bronze Medal. Internationally, Lily competed in the Club Championship Women’s Eight at the 2020 New Zealand North Island Rowing Championships where the crew won the Bronze Medal. She has also represented the Sydney Rowing Club at the Henley Royal Regatta in England as a member of the Junior Women’s Quad. In 2020 she competed in the Loreto Kirribilli 1st VIII Senior Crew for the second year, having previously rowed in the 1st Year 10 VIII Squad in 2018. Her Rowing achievements were recognised by the school with the the 2020 Silver Oar Award, the 2020 Best Performing Senior Rower, the 2019 Girl of the Year, the 2018 Best Performing Year 10 Rower and the 2017 Best Performing Year 9 Rower.
NETBALL UMPIRES
We have had a very exciting year with Netball Umpiring. Currently we have approximately 55 girls who are qualified with their Association levels and badges which is a great achievement. This year in the shortened season, we gained eight new National C badges, eight Senior Level 1 and 10 Junior Level 1 along with numerous Junior and Senior Level 2 accreditations. Congratulations to all the girls as they worked so hard and to all our Umpires who are continuing to develop their skills. Loreto currently has 15 National C badges with a number of these girls striving for their National B Badge: Charlotte Aubin, Sophie Blanks, Charlotte Burgess, Ruby Butler, Matilda Damian, Bianca Douroudis, Alyssa Fikkers, Clare Flanagan, Harper Gracie, Samantha Janssen, Claudia Lenehan, Olivia Loadsman, Rosie Walburn, Sophia Watkins and Imogen Wills. Donna Baker OAM Sport Coordinator
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Junior School Athletics Carnival SCHOOL CHAMPIONSHIP 100M
Ist 2nd 3rd
Gemma Ronan Mary Dunstan Lilli Loiterton
JUNIOR CHAMPION
1st 2nd 3rd
Alexandra Bova Virginia Dixon Eliana Moss
SENIOR CHAMPION
1st 2nd 3rd
Mary Dunstan Gemma Ronan Lilli Loiterton & Ava Prentice
SPIRIT HEATON CHAMPION HOUSE WARD
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Senior School Athletics Carnival OPEN 100M CHAMPIONSHIP
1st 2nd 3rd
Charlotte Greatrex Chloe Allsopp Olivia Rooney
OVERALL POINTSCORE
HEATON
1st Heaton 2nd Barry 3rd Milson 4th Ward SPIRIT TROPHY
WARD
1st Ward 2nd  Barry 3rd Milson 4th Heaton
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Sharing Our Faith HELEN THOMAS I DIRECTOR OF MISSION
An alternative Emmaus program was designed this year adhering to COVID-19 restrictions which kept to the core principles of Service Ministry and enabled students to see the value of service as a core Catholic calling.
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EMMAUS SERVICE MINISTRY PROGRAM
The Year 10 cohort engaged in activities at school rather than out in the community as is normally the case. Over the first two days a range of speakers came to school including Australian journalist and ex-student Eliza Harvey (nee Blue, ’01), who spoke to students about her time in Lebanon and the complexities and corruption which led to the Beirut port explosion. Jesuit Refugee Services and an Iranian refugee also addressed Year 10. Wandana Aboriginal Education spent an afternoon with the year group and engaged in rituals, dancing and face painting as well as learning about Aboriginal tools, culture and spirituality. Catholic Mission personnel led Head, Heart and Hand activities that gave insight into the work of Catholic Mission in the world today and links to Catholic Social teachings. The third day of the program was a day of faith in action with students working on Christmas Hampers, Birthing Kits and some on a reading program for Sundanese refugee children. One group worked on the production of Advocacy videos and others with the volunteers from Days for Girls, a global movement that prepares and distributes sustainable menstrual health solutions to girls who would otherwise miss school during their monthly period. The week was a special time of faith formation and spiritual enrichment and ended with a liturgy in the Chapel reflecting on the Emmaus journey.
Sharing Our Faith
EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION
15 Year 11 students have been commissioned to be Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion for 2021. The training is a significant experience of faith formation, theological studies and spiritual enrichment. The girls are: Indira Brown Rosie Paton Kate St Julian Bridget Currie
Estella Peters
Emma Sheller
Tess Dorahy
Grace Poon
Emily Smith
Lulu Ghattas
Tara Poynder
Olivia Stowe
Anjuna O’Loughlin
Alessia Rupolo
Chelsea Strickland
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Sharing Our Community Senior Counsel Appointments Two former Loreto Kirribilli students have been appointed as Senior Counsel (SC) by the NSW Bar Association. Madeleine Avenell, who graduated in 1997, and Chloe Burnett, who graduated the following year in 1998, were appointed at the same ceremony in Sydney in September. The Bar Association states that an appointment publicly identifies barristers who, “will provide outstanding service as advocates and advisers, to the good of the administration of justice”. Madeleine (above left) attended Sydney University and progressed to the Bar quickly after working as a tipstaff, a judge's assistant. Madeleine worked in Maurice Byers Chambers, prosecuting and defending criminal and civil cases, before becoming a public defender. She says the work is, “Much more challenging and rewarding,” and believes the social justice aspect of her Loreto Kirribilli education encouraged her interest in public defending. “As a public defender I only defend people charged with serious crimes. The defence is publicly funded or from the Aboriginal Legal Service.”
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There are just 29 public defenders in NSW and Madeleine explains that high profile cases are offered to public defenders first so she has experience of defending terrorism, murder and manslaughter charges. She enjoys the work and gaining insights into other peoples’ lives. Madeleine and Chloe were both part of the Mock Trial team at Loreto Kirribilli and believe this sparked their interest in law as a career. Chloe (above right), who attended Loreto Kirribilli from Kindergarten through to Year 12, commented, “I did Mock Trial with Mr Bain and that was a real part of why I became a lawyer.” Chloe specialises in taxation law and says her decision to take both Economics and Visual Arts in Year 12 gave her the experience of exercising both sides of the brain - analytical and creative. “In taxation law you have to think creatively and laterally and I was required to think critically and creatively in my subjects.”
She enjoys the technicalities of taxation law and explained, “It is constantly changing and you have to keep up to date and this means it never gets boring.” A high point in her career was the case of the Australian Tax Office against Chevron, which developed the law of transfer pricing around the world. Chloe also does pro bono work and believes this ‘giving back’ is something she takes from her time at Loreto Kirribilli. “Social justice awareness from school is part of the values you take forward in life.” One such case involved her successfully gaining access to an RSL for an assistance dog. “Boofhead was so well behaved in court that I am sure he helped swing the balance in our favour,” she laughed. Mr Justin Williams SC, father of Genevieve Williams in Year 6, was also appointed Senior Counsel at the Sydney ceremony.
Sharing Our Community canteen Connections link past, present and future
Libby Hattersley (nee Daly) ('87) and Meg Morrison ('87) are long serving canteen volunteers who will no longer be meeting up over Loreto Kirribilli lunch orders following the graduation of Libby’s daughter, Charlotte, this year. The two mums have been volunteering in the school canteen for more than a decade but their friendship and connection to Loreto stretch back much further as they both joined the school in Kindergarten where they became firm friends. The two mums from the Class of 1987 fondly remember their days in Milson House along with another mum, ex-student Emma Seward (nee Davis), whose daughter Jemima is in Year 6. The trio have supported each other through the years with both Emma and Meg being bridesmaids at Libby’s wedding and they found volunteering at the canteen a great way to connect with the school, the students and each other. Libby said the canteen has changed dramatically and gone are the days of meat pies, quiche and Catch of the Day. Plain buttered rolls and ham salad rolls were firm favourites
when she attended school. She has loved her time back at Loreto Kirribilli volunteering regularly.
“Coming through the Junior School you get to know the parents and the children but volunteering at the canteen as the girls moved into Senior School was an opportunity to meet the girls and the other parents,” added Libby. The women enjoy stepping back into their old school yard where much has changed but the core lessons learned remain. “I think the Loreto Kirribilli values are instilled in you for life.
"When I looked into schools for my daughter, the moment I stepped through the gates the memories all came flooding back and they were obviously good memories,” Libby noted.
“We have such strong friendships from our school days and Loreto Kirribilli produces such strong women and that’s what we wanted for our girls too,” added Meg. Meg will continue to volunteer without her long-term friend by her side as her daughter Alexa is in Year 9 and she may now be able to team up with Emma for some shifts as her daughter moves into Senior School.
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Retirements Judith Dearn I Margot Dwyer I Jane Mulray This year saw the retirement of three long-standing members of staff as the school farewelled Judith Dearn, Margot Dwyer and Jane Mulray.
Judith’s first association with Loreto Kirribilli was as a parent of three girls - Susan, Katherine and Alison. During her daughters’ school years, she actively volunteered her services in the Canteen, and was then persuaded by the Tuckshop Coordinator at the time, Clare Davis, to work in the Canteen more regularly. She left this year after 23 years’ worth of work and dedication to Loreto Kirribilli. Judith made a significant contribution to the school through her strong work ethic and genuine care of students.
Margot Dwyer is a former Loreto Normanhurst girl and Loreto Normanhurst School Council member. Her move to Loreto Kirribilli in 1993 was warmly embraced by then Principal, Sister Anne Kelly. Margot’s Bachelor of Economics with Accounting major was well utilised in her role as Assistant to the Development Officer. Loreto Kirribilli has benefited from her sharp intellect and superb eye for detail for more than 27 years.
Loreto Kirribilli.”
“Your work as Database and School Development Assistant has been exemplary and integral to the development of the school. Your commitment, dedication and generosity will be sorely missed by our staff, ex-students and the Loreto Kirribilli community. I wish you every happiness
Anna Dickinson, Principal
in your retirement.”
“You have made a significant contribution to the school through your strong work ethic and genuine care of our students. I extend my thanks to you for all the support you have given to our students and staff in your 23 years at
Anna Dickinson, Principal
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Jane Mulray, the Junior School's much loved and long serving secretary, retired at the beginning of Term 3. Jane was a loyal, generous and hard-working member of staff, who left after 11 years at Loreto Kirribilli. Jane's quiet efficiency and care, shown to students, parents and colleagues alike, epitomised her approach and she will be missed by all who had the pleasure of working with her. “While we will miss Jane and her wisdom and understanding of the culture, ethos and mission of our school, we wish her a well-deserved time of happiness in her retirement.” Martin Lobo, Acting Head of Junior School
LK Connect mentoring and networking program In the words of Mary Ward,
“Women in time to come will do much” - well, that time is now! Our ex-students continue to emulate the values of Mary Ward as displayed during our inaugural Zoom events for LK Connect - ‘Global Voices of Loreto Kirribilli’ and the ‘The Mentor Mentee Partnership’. This year allowed us to use virtual platforms of connection to reach and engage our ex-student community around the world. GLOBAL VOICES
Our sincere appreciation to our inspirational ‘Global Voices’ guest speakers - Grace Brennan, Melanie Brandman, Bridie Ohlsson, Caroline McLaughlin, Julia Burke and facilitator, Joanne Sawicki. All Loreto Kirribilli ex-students sharing their diverse careers and differences they have made in the world. As quoted by current grandparent and ex-student, Gai Hamer, “I laughed; I cried and felt a personal sense of pride in such wonderful women.” MENTOR MENTEE PARTNERSHIP
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For further information about LK Connect please contact Debbie Henry or Antoinette Darin | Phone 9957 4722 or email lkconnect@loreto.nsw.edu.au
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All our guest speakers highlighted the importance of networking within the Loreto Kirribilli community. Caroline offered sound words of advice to our current Year 12 students and current graduates to, “Use this crisis as an opportunity to hone your skills; take the time to explore new avenues and gain valuable workplace experiences through internships.”
From top left Simone Longworth ('11) Nicole Noye ('84) Grace Brennan ('01) Antonia Quinlivan ('06) Bridie Ohlsson (‘09) Rachel Grimes ('85) Melanie Brandman ('81) Caroline McLaughlin (‘83) Justice Julia Lonergan ('78) Joanne Sawicki ('78) Julia Burke (‘85)
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“During these unprecedented and challenging times we are experiencing worldwide, we must find solace with collaboration within our community.”
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Through their personal life and career experiences, our speakers felt strongly about the importance of mentoring and networking amongst our Loreto friends. As mentioned by Grace Brennan, the founder of #buyfromthebush, who commented,
Parents and Friends Kim Turner & Leila Lai I JOINT P&F Presidents What a year it has been for all of us and we all survived. A special mention goes to Anna Dickinson, the School Executive and our teachers for leading our girls through this ever evolving environment, they have done an amazing job to ensure our girls didn’t miss a beat in their learning.
We were delighted to finally hold two events towards the end of Term 4 to celebrate the year of 2020 – the P&F Thanksgiving Celebration Mass at Our Lady Star of the Sea and the P&F Social Golf Day. The Social Golf Day was a last minute and very welcome event decision to provide an opportunity to reconnect with each other. A day filled with fun, friendly, competitive spirit amongst some past and current parents. We are looking forward to the 2021 school year, hopefully with all our wonderful P&F events in full swing. We thank our P&F Committee and all the Class Parents for their support this year and look forward to working together in 2021 to make our community even stronger. Wishing everyone a safe and joyful Christmas with your loved ones and a relaxing summer break.
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Ex-Students' Union Celia Sheldon | Ex-StudentS' Union President Despite the many challenges, 2020 has been an exciting year for us. What commenced as a year of promise, quickly became the opposite as, like everyone across the country, we were required to place our plans on hold. In true Loreto form we did not deter, and after a period of re-inventing and much up-skilling, quickly figured out how to present most of our activities in a virtual yet highly interactive format instead. The restrictions of this year have actually resulted in us connecting more widely with our community in ways we would never have expected. The ‘silverlining’ of COVID-19!
We had a wonderful community experience with our online Mother-Daughter Liturgy in place of the annual Mother-Daughter Mass. An incredible opportunity to reach out to many more of our community and we were joined by mothers, daughters, grandmothers, sisters and aunties from all over Australia and the world. Later in the year, we assisted with the very successful LK Connect event, Global Voices of Loreto Kirribilli; another showcase of the wide and varied community of professional Loreto women all over the world and a clear sign of the eagerness of our ex-students to support and encourage each other. In Term 4 we held our largest Spirituality Day in recent memory, as almost 100 people signed on to Zoom for a wonderfully uplifting afternoon of sharing in the music and spiritual resonances of Sr Deirdre Browne ibvm, direct from lockdown in Melbourne. We also launched our Instagram account this year which has been very exciting. We are now able to share photos, stories and information more immediately and connect with a wider audience. Do follow us! Next year we look forward to Loreto Federation in Adelaide, a time for past students, parents and friends of all Loreto schools across Australia to come together, to share ideas and communicate about relevant issues and inspire each other with enthusiasm and creativity. The theme of Federation 2021 is INSPIRE. Always remember that our events are not restricted to ex-students but are for the benefit of our whole Loreto community, including parents and past-parents. Please contact me with any questions or suggestions about our activities, events and ideas or if you would like to be involved in some way with the ex-students and our 2021 events. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep up-to-date with details of our activities.
stay connected
Stay connected with the latest Ex-Students' news by following us on Facebook and Instagram Instagram: loretokirribilli_exstudents Facebook: Loreto Kirribilli Ex-Students’ Union exstudents@loreto.nsw.edu.au | 0412 383 330
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2021 Events
Loreto KirribiLLi Parents & Friends
touch of white
2021 CoCKtaiL PartY save the date 7pm-10pm Friday 19 February 2021 DIARY DATES
Friday 19 February P&F Welcome Cocktail Party Saturday 6 March Ex-students' Spirituality Day Wednesday 24 March LK Connect Global Voices, ‘Women in Science’ Sunday 2 May Mother Daughter Mass Thursday 17 June Theatre Party Thursday 24 June Card Day Thursday 9 September Golf Day and Dinner Friday 8 - Sunday 10 October Loreto Federation, Loreto Marryatville Adelaide REUNIONS
Class of '71 Saturday 30 October Kirribilli Club Enquiries: Fiona Stephinson (McCann) fstephinson@gmail.com Invitations will be emailed early 2021.
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LORETO RING
The opportunity to purchase a Loreto Ring has been made available to all graduates and friends of Loreto Schools in Australia. This beautiful sterling silver ring will provide a tangible symbol of your connection with Loreto and link you with the many members of the Loreto community throughout Australia. As rings must be collected from School, order forms should be lodged at the Loreto School nearest to you. Each School will place one order annually. The cost of the ring is $130 (including GST and handling). Orders must be sent in to Loreto Kirribilli by 12 November 2021. Rings will be ready for collection during February 2022. Collection details will be advised when the rings have been delivered to Loreto Kirribilli. Orders received after the closing date will be included in the following year’s order. Order forms and payment details can be found on the Loreto Kirribilli website.
Spirit Magazine now Digital a sustainable SPIRIT for the future
Loreto Kirribilli has always managed its resources carefully with the future in mind. As a result, you will now receive your copy of the Spirit magazine digitally via the email address we hold on file. Printed copies remain available on request to those readers who opt in to receive their copy in the mail. MANAGING FOR SUSTAINABILITY
TO CONTINUE TO RECEIVE A PRINTED COPY BY MAIL
Loreto Kirribilli is committed to continuing to work with staff, students and the broader school community to support the sustainability of our School and also the sustainability of our environment.
Opt in by contacting us via: • email info@loreto.nsw.edu.au • phone 9957 4722 or • mail C ommunications Office Loreto Kirribilli 85 Carabella Street Kirribilli NSW 2061 You only need to opt in once. We will continue to send you each issue until you opt out.
Excerpt from Loreto Kirribilli 2020-2023 Strategic Plan Inspired Minds: Catalysts for Change
TO RECEIVE SPIRIT DIGITALLY BY EMAIL
You do not need to do anything. You will automatically be sent a link to the digital version.
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Ex-Students’ News ENGAGEMENTS Jessamine Walker (’99)
| Stefanie Thasler (’13)
Katie Harrison (’10) WEDDINGS Marissa Bateman (‘02) to Alix Bruce
| Deirdre Kelly (‘05) to Elliott Davis
Matilda Makes (’06) to Joel Butler
| Amelia Norris (’10) to Duncan Boyd Jones
BIRTHS : DAUGHTERS Olivia Mary to Susanna Boyd (Sharpe ‘01)
| Isabel Claudia to Julia Helmke (Gormly ’04)
Sylvie Mary to Meghan Drew (’95) BIRTHS : SONS Billy to Amelia St John Kennedy (Kelly ‘01)
| Cooper John to Kate Marden (Coolican ’02)
Henry George to Sophie Dutton (Coolican ’06)
| James Christopher to Amelia Beasley (Stephinson ’04)
Vincent to Phoebe Wallace (Lewis ‘01)
| Chappie Peter Fraser to Isabella Loneragan (’98)
Fred William to Charlotte Young (’05)
| Henry Thomas to Carla Nicholls (Gillespie '05)
DEATHS : EX-STUDENTS Pamela L’Estrange (McGuigan ’47), widow of Vin L’Estrange (LK ’37) (dec), mother of Cathy L’Estrange (’77), aunt of Mary Peachey (McGuigan ‘78) (dec), Brigid Wright (McGuigan ‘86), Patrick McGuigan (LK ‘78) and Kate Cannon (McGuigan ‘89) Marie Smirnovs (Begbie ‘51/52) Mary Lum (Armstrong ’54), sister of Elizabeth Moore (Armstrong ’51) (dec), Mary’s older sisters, Margaret IBVM (dec) and Helen, attended Loreto Normanhurst Margaret Collingridge (’57) Murray Deakin (LK ’67), father of Phoebe Deakin (’15), brother of Christine Asmar (Deakin ’64), Alison Raco (Deakin ’67), Michelle McNamara (Deakin ’69), Louise Greenwood (Deakin ’71), Gillian Deakin (’75) and Edwina Deakin (’78), uncle of Camilla Greenwood (’01) Dominique Johnstone (Lieutenant ’63), mother of Danielle Hines (Johnstone ’87) and Lucy Orth (Johnstone ’93), sister of Christine Garofani (Lieutenant ’65), Nicole McPherson (Lieutenant ’68) & Bernard Lieutenant (LK ’61) (dec) Paula Merkel (Browne ’44), mother of Julia Merkel (’64), David (LK ’57) (dec) and Tony (LK ’60), sister of Ethna Phillips (Browne LN) (dec), Nuala Rogerson (Browne LN) (dec), Marie Liddle (Browne ’43) (dec), Beatrice Nunn (Browne ’45), Anne Kidd (Browne ’46) and Frances (Val) Browne IBVM (’51) Sheila Christian (Adams ’42), sister of Patricia Lyons (Adams ’39) (dec) Helen Leslie (Reynolds ’46), sister of Joan Reynolds (’40) Carmody Sister Joan OSU (’44) DEATHS : EX-STUDENTS' RELATIVES Alexander McSpadden, husband of Michaela (Kelly ‘53) John Rattigan, father of Jennifer Rattigan (’74) and Carolyn Westgarth (Rattigan ’75) John Barkus, father of Bridget (’18) and Bella (Year 12) Anne Galbraith, mother of Vanessa Freeman (Galbraith ’80), Jacqui Galbraith (’83) and Caroline Scougall (Galbraith ’86), grandmother of Meg Freeman (’10) and Lily Harvey (’18) Darcy Henry, brother of Georgie (’16) and Lucy (Year 6) Helen Trew, mother of Sophie McManus (Trew ’91) and Oliver Trew (LK ‘86)