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To Hold With Care

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Perth College is honoured to be situated on the ancestral lands of the Whadjuk Noongar people. We acknowledge First Australians as the Traditional Custodians of the Lands we stand on and pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future, for they hold the memories, the traditions, the cultures and the hopes of Australian’s First Peoples.

Cover Image: 2023 Student Leadership Team and Student Representative Council Inside Cover Image: Year 10 to 12 Senior Physical Theatre production, Beacons Heritage Editor: Christina Douglas Contact: Christina.Douglas@pc.wa.edu.au

Inside ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

FROM THE SENIOR SCHOOL

FROM THE JUNIOR SCHOOL

THE BOARDING HOUSE

Capable STAFF ACHIEVEMENTS

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE MARKETS

CIRCULAR ECONOMY

INQUIRY LEARNING IN THE JUNIOR SCHOOL

VISUAL ART AWARDS

MUSIC WRAP UP

Courageous

School Prefec ts

c. 1917-19

ISABELLE RIGBY

20 YEARS OF SPIN

STATE SPORT SUPERSTARS

YEAR 10 CAMP

IGSSA ATHELETICS

SPORT UPDATE

Caring ANGLICARE SLEEPOUT

RIVER SCHOOL

PC OUT YONDER TOUR

BOARDERS IN THE COMMUNITY

ST MICHAEL’S DAY

48 3

FROM THE P R I NCI P AL

SPRING 2023

Creating Capable, Courageous and Caring individuals at Perth College Perth College places great importance on its values, which are the driving force behind our School's ethos. Our aim is to develop students who are capable, courageous, and caring individuals in every aspect of their lives. We strive to help our students reach their full potential and to support them as they face challenges. We also encourage them to give back to our community and to do so with integrity, respect, and compassion. This year has shown that our students possess not only a hunger for knowledge but also the ability to solve problems and think critically. It has shown how creative our students can be, as well as their dedication to making a positive impact on our community.

Within this edition of the Heritage, you will discover an assortment of stories that showcase how our brilliant students embody the values of Perth College.

It has been a pleasure to witness these stories unfold this year and to see the growth, optimism, and perseverance of Perth College's students on a daily basis.

From exploring entrepreneurship to commemorating 20 years of our dance production, Anglicare Sleepout, and our annual St Michael's Day celebration, there is much to celebrate. Our students have been given the opportunity to pursue their passions, try new things, and think differently.

I am excited to see what the remainder of the year has in store and hope you enjoy reading our Spring edition of the Heritage magazine.

Clare Johansen I N T E R I M P RI NCI P A L

Their commitment to making the world a better place is evident in their courage and capability, whether it involves raising awareness about mental health issues, performing on stage, or finding solutions for global issues.

FROM THE SENI OR SCHOOL

Embracing growth and knowledge in the Senior School In Term Four, we find ourselves at the crossroads of reflection and excitement. These last few months have been a journey of growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences in the Senior School. It has given us the opportunity to look back at the knowledge gained in the learning and teaching space as well as the anticipation towards the end of the year. One of the joys of education is the opportunity to explore new horizons. Many of our students have ventured into unfamiliar subjects this year discovering hidden talents and passions. We have had Concerto Night, the PC Student Art Exhibition, students World Scholars Cup and the National Titration Competition, where students have been able to embrace their learning beyond the classroom.

Remember, education is not only about achievement and performance; it is about fostering a love for learning that will stay with us long after the final bell of the year rings.

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Teamwork, time management, resilience, and adaptability are all skills we've honed as we navigated the unique challenges of this term. These life lessons will serve students well as they step into the future, ready to face whatever it holds. Behind every successful term is the unwavering guidance of our dedicated teachers. They have been the pillars of support, adapting their teaching methodologies to keep students engaged and motivated. Their commitment to student growth and success is truly commendable. Whether through informative presentations, or heartfelt discussions, our teachers have continued to ignite the spark of curiosity within the student body. As we look ahead to the end of this year, let us not forget that our journey of growth and knowledge is far from over. Each term is a stepping stone, building the foundation for our future endeavours. The experiences, friendships, and lessons of this year will shape the individuals our students are becoming.

Gary Racey DIREC TOR OF LEARNING AND TE ACHING ( Y E A R S 7 T O 12)

Congratulations to the Student Officials for 2024 School Captain: Stella Freeman Student Leadership Council: Bethany Clarke, Libby Mazzella and Emma Ou SRC Captain: Cate Beasley

A reflection from the Director of Wellbeing As I reflect on the year that has been, it is clear that it is an extraordinary gift to be part of the Perth College community. In 2023, together we have thrived, and it has been a privilege to watch our students flourish; we have much to celebrate as educating, guiding and nurturing a community of learners throughout a school year is an incredible accomplishment. Amidst the challenges of our world, the compassion and willingness to assist those facing adversity stand as a testament to our shared values of being caring, capable and courageous. We have witnessed several projects that are evidence of our values in action, not only bringing comfort and support to those in need, but also creating a sense of perspective and accomplishment for those who give. These projects included our Year 12 World’s Greatest Shave in support of the Leukemia Foundation; the Blue Tree Project raising awareness of mental illness; PC Out Yonder Cultural Immersion Tour allowing our students and staff to work with students in Laverton; and Anglicare’s annual Winter Sleep Out where Team PC raised more than $20,000 towards the vital work of Anglicare’s Street Connect program. I take immense pride in the dedicated efforts of our students in the Senior School, and the staff who support them.

Student Representative Council: Samalmi Dewamullage, Emily Nguyen, Sofia Tassone and Isabelle Winter Boarding Captain: Hazel Kail Boarding Council: Kayla Crombie, Ella Simkin and Jorjah Walley

John Quincy Adam once said ‘if your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader’. With a strong leadership focus in Term Three, it is important to highlight that all students have the capacity to be a leader by modelling best behaviour, applying themselves diligently to their studies, interacting positively and respectfully with others and by engaging proudly in all school activities.

Service Captains: Anya Bhandari and Kathryn Pride

Our 2023 Student Leadership Team and Officials have demonstrated passion, creativity, and commitment to support and reach out to others, particularly our student community. I thank each and every Official for their authentic commitment in serving the needs of our school community. They have certainly set the bar high for best practice in student leadership.

Music Captain: Victoria Mok

Our newly appointed Officials will lead, motivate, influence, and encourage our exceptional students. As a community, we congratulate these students on their appointment and thank all the students who had the confidence and courage to apply.

Lucy Sabatini DIREC TOR OF WELLBEING ( Y E A R S 7 T O 12)

Academic Captains: Naomi Lim and Sienna Odorisio Innovation Captains: Mila Capelli and Aimee Watts Visual Arts Captain: Ada Grealish Dance Captain: Charlotte Cherry Drama Captain: Hannah McCarthy

Sport Captains: Sophia Carruthers and Emily Rivers Barron House Captains: Sofia Ambrosino and Sathmi Premachandra Bedford House Captains: Freya Beasley and Neve Bush Campion House Captains: Bronte Fong and Imala Gray Lawley House Captains: Gracie Foote and Milla Hall We recently celebrated the final weeks of our Class of 2023 which culminated in our Valedictory Ceremony. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the many achievements of our graduating class. We wish the Year 12s our fondest farewells as they step out of the school gates and forge a pathway in life beyond school.

FROM THE J UNI OR SCH OOL

Reflecting on 2023 As we enter the final phase of the year, it is timely to reflect on the year that was 2023. In the Junior School, we have wholeheartedly embraced the theme ‘Koodadjinong – Seek to Understand’ and we have spent much time learning with and from one another. It has been a year to deeply engage with hands-on interactive experience. From science experiments to art projects, sporting challenges to camps, each year group has participated in a wide array of

opportunities which enrich their learning, enhance confidence and motivation, and allow an individual to explore their passions and strengths. Have there been moments requiring grit and determination, obstacles and disappointment? Of course, but this is the natural course and one that is befitting of a future enabled citizen equipped for an unknown world. I have many a personal highlight that will remain with me long into 2024 and beyond.

Our Favourite Moments PRE - KINDERGARTEN

Our youngest learners experienced the joy of Grandparents' and Special Friends' Day, as they welcomed their guest to enjoy quality time in our learning environment.

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Our staff work tirelessly to ensure that children are at the heart of every decision, all in partnership with a parent community who believe in our vision for girls to be caring, capable and courageous. The future looks bright for Perth College.

Katie Petchell DIRECTOR OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

KINDERGARTEN

Weekly ‘Walkabouts’ where students engaged with the local Mount Lawley community. A visit to the post office and a babycino from a local café–a delightful way to spend a morning.

PRE-PRIMARY

YEAR 1

YEAR 2

The Pre-Primary students have continued to contribute meaningfully to the Inglewood Triangle, working closely with the community group responsible for rehabilitating and maintaining this urban bush area.

The Year 1 students visited the Perth Zoo to learn about animals, their features and habitats.

The Year 2 students had the opportunity to visit Peninsula Farm last term. The students had fun dressing up in 'olden day' clothing and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

YEAR 3

YEAR 4

The newly revealed playground equipment brought alot of fun to the Year 3 students. They have also made a small garden space of their own between the Spida and the Edna Stremple building. It is like a secret wonderland filled with rich imagination and wonder!

The Year 4 students delighted a captive audience with their assembly items and enthusiastically embraced Book Week Dress Up Day with wild and wonderful costumes galore.

YEAR 5

YEAR 6

The Year 5 students created a unique bond with the Year 11 students and regularly enjoyed skipping challenges together. An evening spent exploring the edges of the lake and climbing trees at Boshack Outback Camp provided a tranquil opportunity to engage with nature.

A year of moving beyond comfort zone, competing in the JIGSSA fixtures against other independent all girls’ schools, taking the lead in Madagascar JR., abseiling down a rock face at Forest Edge Recreation Camp and learning the skills of entrepreneurship at the Future Anything ‘Flare’ Workshop.

So many incredible memories to conclude their time in the Junior School.

FROM THE BOAR D I NG H OUSE

Celebrating Growth, Independence, and Community For many of our Boarder's their wonderful journey of Boarding School starts on a hot summer’s day in January. The first year of Boarding is a massive milestone for any new student, whether they start in Year 7 or 11. Our Boarder's learn to become independent and self-sufficient, while also adapting to living in shared spaces and being away from their families for the first time.

co-curricular options on offer. This year, our Boarder's have had the opportunity to be part of so many different experiences both on and off campus. From the Senior School Musical, Concerto Night, the Greatest Shave, volunteering at Ocean Heroes, HBF Run for a Reason, and many more. Seeing them try, excel and enjoy these many activities has been truly thrilling.

For me, every year brings the joy of seeing these young girls grow, learn, and discover more about themselves within our boarding community. To watch them make new friends, find subjects and topics that excite them and venture into the many

Boarding at Perth College is a truly unique and wonderful experience, and it is inspiring to see how the Boarders embody our School's values of being Capable, Courageous, and Caring. Solving problems, making wise decisions, and adapting to a new

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environment are just some of the life skills they develop. Their courage to step out of their comfort zones and their compassion towards each other during their school journey is admirable. As we bid farewell to our graduating class, we feel a mix of emotions happiness for their bright future and sadness at their departure. However, we are confident that they will accomplish great things and eagerly anticipate the upcoming year.

Jill Miller HEAD OF BOARDING

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apable 13

S TAFF ACH I EVEM ENTS

Australian Education National Education Awards: Best Co-Curricular Program The 2023 FIFA World Cup celebrated women's sports, and the Matildas' participation was a powerful reminder of the importance of girls pursuing their love of playing and excelling in sports. It was also for Perth College, a reminder of the importance of the Sports Development and Performance Program at our School. The Sports Development and Performance Program, a finalist for Best Co-Curricular Program, encourages and empowers girls to stay active and involved in sports. Studies have shown that nearly half of girls stop playing sports by the age of 17, and that girls aged 15 to 17 spend less time on physical activity than boys. However, playing sports can provide numerous benefits such as teamwork, social connections, confidence, and resilience.

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Launching in 2022, under the leadership of Adam Selwood, the program’s fundamental mission was to ensure equitable access to sports for all students, regardless of age or skill level, nurturing a 'sport for life' ethos. The amalgamation of this program with our existing efforts in the Health and Physical Education department has been a significant achievement. Witnessing students wholeheartedly engaged in sports, with co-curricular sporting opportunities available within our school has been a pleasure to see. We take immense pride in supporting our student-athletes in the Senior School through our Advanced Pathway High-Performance program. Currently, we have 36 students actively participating in our weekly strength and conditioning sessions, carefully tailored to prepare and elevate their proficiency in their chosen sports. Observing these students flourish under the guidance of dedicated coaches fills us with pride for their commitment and anticipation for the future of women's sports.

Perth College's Sports Development and Performance Program instils optimism in female athletes, emphasising that with the right support, they can enjoy physical activity and reach their full potential. It underscores the school's commitment to holistic education, where physical participation moulds well-rounded individuals poised for success both on and off the field. Perth College is immensely proud that this program, not only nurtures our student-athletes but fosters a culture of inclusivity, mental wellbeing and personal achievement.

Awards Finalists National Education Awards: Primary School Principal of the Year (non-government)

positive learning environment and her ability to connect with students, teachers and parents have made her an key figure within our School community.

We are thrilled to share that our Director of Junior School, Katie Petchell, was recently recognised as a finalist for the Primary School Principal of the Year award in the non-government category. This prestigious acknowledgement is a testament to her exceptional leadership skills, dedication to professional growth, innovation, and community engagement.

Perth College's Junior School provides an exceptional foundation for children, inspiring young girls to pursue their interests, achieve their goals, and form lasting friendships throughout their academic journey.

Katie has been the heart and soul of our Junior School for the last five years, leading our staff and students with optimism, confidence, and grace. Her commitment to fostering a

Our goal is to cultivate confident, inquisitive, and imaginative students who are well-prepared for their transition to senior school. In addition to learning and teaching, our students can engage in a range of co-curricular activities, empowering them to venture beyond their limits and explore new opportunities.

Under Katie's leadership, our Junior School has been able to extend its programs to positively impact the greater Perth College community. We now provide opportunities for community members to engage with us through PC Playtime, Vacation Care, and Holiday Workshops. These programs are a testament to our commitment to fostering meaningful connections within our community. We are incredibly proud of Katie’s achievement, as she has made such a positive impact on the Perth College community, nurturing a caring and positive environment for our Junior School students.

Well done Katie!

S PARC E N IOR S CHOOL NEWS

Social Enterprise Markets: Making Young Entrepreneurs This year, our Year 8 students had the opportunity to explore their entrepreneurial skills through the Perth College sparc program. Our sparc framework offers up rich learning experiences that combine leadership, innovation, and citizenship to cultivate leadership attributes, encourage creative problem solving and ideas for sustainable businesses that contribute to the community. In a world where global challenges continue to mount, innovative solutions driven by young minds are needed more than ever. On Tuesday 5 September, students held their Social Enterprise Market, where they created businesses generating profits for social good through our partnership with Bloom-Centre for

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Youth Innovation. This partnership channels youthful energy into entrepreneurial endeavours – empowering students and cultivating conscious leaders. The aim of this project was for students to drive their efforts towards positive change, with the opportunity to demonstrate agency and become proactive learners. Supported by sparc mentors, students explored business challenges such as navigating diverse perspectives, budgeting, logistics and supply chain shortages. They also tackled the intricacies of marketing their products effectively within the school community and designing an enticing market stall display. These multifaceted challenges test their adaptability and creativity, fostering skills that extend far beyond the realm of entrepreneurship. The Year 8 sparc-Bloom partnership transcends traditional education, offering a tangible taste of real-world challenges and triumphs. When asked what two words describe the experience so far, two Year 8 students answered,

Creative and challenging. It's been challenging trying to organise everything and to think of something that's different to everyone else. Something that's helped is having a team that works well together and coming up with an idea that's unique.

SPARC

What is a circular economy?

Exploring the Circular Economy Our Year 9 students have been exploring the possibility of a circular economy approach to product development and comparing it to the current linear system widely used in design. Setting up a Soft Plastic Task Force, they investigated plastic waste found in store-bought food products, and how they could use advertising to educate and share soft plastic reduction strategies with the community. Currently, we are globally running on a linear economy that is unsustainable as it prioritises the profitability of the products over being eco-friendly. In Australia alone, we discard 70 billion pieces of soft scrunchable plastic into landfills per year, making up a staggering 84 per cent of what goes into landfills. The best alternative is the Circular Economy Approach, which is the opposite of to the linear model. The circular economy focuses on the reuse and regeneration of materials

or products, whereas the linear economy is the traditional model where raw materials are collected and modified into products that consumers use until discarded as waste, with no concern for their ecological footprint and consequences. Our ultimate goal was to raise awareness within the community of the major implications that are associated with plastic packaging. We made a trip to the local IGA and discovered the sheer amount of plastic packaging made available for purchase, located in all the aisles of the supermarket. We found that most companies used a variety of plastics or other unsustainable and unnecessary resources for many items. To find out more about our findings and steps toward embracing the circular economy, scan the QR code.

Authored by the Soft Plastic Task Force @ PC.

FROM THE BOAR D I NG H OUSE

SPRING 2023

The Power of Inquiry Learning in our Junior School At Perth College, one of the pedagogical approaches used in the Junior School is inquiry-based learning. This is based on the belief that students learn best when actively engaged and inquisitive, this method of teaching empowers them to be curious, explore and discover new knowledge and understanding with the support of their teachers.

Provocations Provocations can take various forms, depending on the year level, subject matter, and classroom context. They are selected or crafted by educators to spark curiosity and initiate the inquiry process. The goal of a provocation is to spark curiosity and hook students into learning, prompting them to ask questions and engage in research, discussion, and investigation. When students are curious and motivated to learn, they are more likely to take ownership of their learning and actively participate in the learning process.

Connecting to the Curriculum As students move through the Junior School, they develop more independence with the inquiry process. Inquiry learning presents opportunities to explicitly teach the various skills outlined within the curriculum while supporting students to develop their ability to drive their own learning. It provides the opportunity to foster skills such as curiosity, problem-solving and critical thinking, supporting our students to develop their ability to research and communicate effectively.

Developing a love for learning As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of education, inquiry-based learning provides a wonderful opportunity to develop learners who not only love learning, but are also curious, capable and know how to learn. Inquiry learning places emphasis on not only what students learn, but how they learn developing self-directed learners who are prepared for a future filled with challenges and opportunities.

VISUAL ARTS

Visual Art Awards

SPRING 2023

The creativity and skill of our Visual Arts students shone brightly during this year's Art Awards season. Their exceptional works were a testament to their dedication and hard work resulting in well-deserved recognition at various Art Exhibitions across Perth. At the 2023 Atwell Awards, an annual exhibition showcasing artwork from students in Years 7 to 12 across WA, our students excelled. Zoe M was the overall winner of the Year 7 category, being a shining example of young talent. Additionally, Jaymi S and Lauren R, Year 10 students, were recognized for their skills by earning the overall 2D winner title and the Year 10 Highly Commended Award, respectively To round off the accolades at the Atwell Awards, Year 12 students, Emily S and Meghan B, also won impressive awards - The Ivana St John Award for Creative Energy at its Best in 3D and The May Mason Award for Wearable Art. In addition, Amelia J, Year 10, was a finalist in the prestigious Shaun Tan Art Award, while Vivi S, Year 11, won the Popular People’s Choice Award at the Emerge Youth Awards.

We are incredibly proud of all our students who have showcased their artistic talents across a wide variety of mediums, demonstrating the breadth of diversity and opportunity within the Perth College Visual Arts Program. Well done to all! 21

MUSIC

SPRING 2023

Music Wrap Up Our Music department has been bustling with a variety of exciting events for students of all levels, from Junior to Senior School. Some highlights include:

String students from around Australia and New Zealand, and making new friends on tour. There were many new musical skills developed and wonderful memories made with friends!

Sydney International Music Festival

Sisters of the Church Music Festival

In the July school holidays eighty musicians from Years 7 to 9, along with staff from the Arts department, attended the Sydney International Music Festival. The Year 7 to 8 Chorale, Camarata String Orchestra and Intermediate Concert Band were all participating in the festival and were awarded 2 silver medals and 1 bronze medal for their performances. The ensembles performed in many venues around Sydney, including the Sydney Opera House.

August also proved to be an unforgettable experience for 22 of our Senior School students who travelled to Canberra to participate in the 2023 Sisters of the Church Music Festival. They had the privilege of performing in the final concert alongside students from other schools across Australia and New Zealand, which was a highlight for all involved.

Some highlights of this tour included workshops with internationally renowned musicians, performing at the Sydney Opera House, attending ‘Beauty and the Beast’ the musical, performing with Choir, Band and

Junior Choral Concert Our Junior School musicians have also been busy with their Junior Choral Concert titled 'Where we Belong' and Musical Discoveries events. The students put their hearts into their performances, singing Moana's 'How Far I'll Go' and a medley of songs from the musical Annie.

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ageous 25

Isabelle’s story In 2020, Year 11 student Isabelle, was the recipient of a double lung and heart transplant. Today, she is a bronze medalist in the 100m sprint having represented Australia in the 2023 World Transplant Games.

This year, we have been able to witness an incredible story from one of our students, Isabelle (Year 11). In 2020, Year 11 student Isabelle, was the recipient of a double lung and heart transplant. Today, she is a bronze medalist in the 100m sprint having represented Australia in the 2023 World Transplant Games. Late in 2022, Isabelle came to our Principal with her dream; she wanted to represent Australia in the World Transplant Games, but she needed the help of the Perth College community to get there. As a result, the School proudly supported Isabelle in her goal to compete in the 2023 Games. Isabelle then dedicated the next six months to being trained and mentored by Perth College Head of PE, Renae Campbell and sprint coach, Simon Walsh.

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"That person, on that day, gave me back to my family."

When she first started training, Isabelle had a personal best of 34 seconds. In March, heading into the Games, she was finishing at a time of 16 seconds. For anyone, this would be a remarkable feat, but for Isabelle, who went from being “a young girl barely able to do physical activity”, this was an incredible achievement. The World Transplant Games, which was hosted by Perth in April, was the culmination of all of Isabelle’s hard work. Isabelle pledged to use this event to raise awareness of how the generosity of donors and their families can bring the miracle of a new life and future for transplant recipients. With 1500 participants and more than 50 countries competing in 17 sports, this was also a great opportunity for our students and staff to give back to the community. During the opening ceremony weekend, our Senior School staff

and students showcased the community spirit of Perth College as they came together to show their support for Isabelle ahead of her big race. Since competing in the Games, Isabelle has had the opportunity to speak at several events, about her inspiring story. In Isabelle’s words, she has said, “I am standing in front of you today because my donor decided to register as an organ donor,” she said. “Without that person, I would not be here. “That person, on that day, gave me the ability to breathe. “That person, on that day, gave me the ability to run, walk and play sports.

“That person, on that day, gave me back to my family. “That person, on that day, gave me back to my friends. “And that person, on that day, gave me my life and future back.” Isabelle’s story embodies the Perth College spirit of community, bravery, and perseverance. We are proud of all that she has achieved and look forward to seeing where the future will take her.

"I am standing in front of you today because my donor decided to register as an organ donor" “That person, on that day, gave me the ability to run, walk and play sports." “And that person, on that day, gave me my life and future back" 27

PE RFORMING AR TS

Celebrating 20 years of SPIN SPIN, Perth College's biennial co-curricular dance production, is an extraordinary platform that brings together students from Years 7 to 12, serving as a vibrant celebration of their talent and creativity. This collaborative endeavour allows students to engage with experienced staff and guest choreographers, enabling them to create captivating dance works that span a diverse range of styles. SPIN provides a unique opportunity for students to explore and express themselves through the art of dance, fostering their artistic growth. The 2023 dance production SPIN: Canvas, celebrating its 20th anniversary, took audiences on a journey through a vibrant fusion of art forms, where dance became the medium of expression. Inspired by the realms of visual art, music, fashion, jewellery, literature, and textiles, this extraordinary production showcased a diverse range of dance works in a range of dance styles. From its inception, SPIN has been committed to providing a space for students to collaborate across year groups, fostering a sense of unity and friendship. The production has constantly strived to offer a highquality dance experience, encouraging students to work alongside Perth's best professional choreographers.

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Through this collaboration, SPIN has nurtured the artistic and creative input of dancers, rewarding their commitment and inspiring them to push their boundaries. Over the years, SPIN has championed student-led works, providing our students with a remarkable sense of autonomy and invaluable hands-on experience in artistic and choreographic endeavours. By showcasing these works, we empower our students to explore their creativity, giving them the freedom to express their unique artistic visions. We thank the generosity of past and present Perth College staff members for their contribution to SPIN. Without dedicated and inspiring staff, SPIN would not be so successful. Thank you to all our past and present students who have contributed to, performed in, choreographed for and supported SPIN.

Amy Fittock DANCE TEACHER

S PORT

Sport Superstars It has been a big year of sport at Perth College with several of our students accomplishing outstanding sporting achievements at a State and National level. Recognising and nurturing young talent is at the heart of our mission at Perth College, with our Physical Education Department and Sports Development and Performance Program being a pillar of support for these students. These young athletes are a wonderful representation of the dedication, perseverance, resilience, and courage it takes to perform at such a high level. Perth College wholeheartedly congratulates these exceptional athletes and eagerly looks forward to the bright futures that await them, not only in the world of sports but in every aspect of life.

Ava

Sadie

Leah

YEAR 7

YEAR 9

Achievement National champion, Tae Kwon Do

Achievement State representative, netball

Achievement State representative, hockey

Emma

Sasha

Zara

YEAR 7

YEAR 9

Achievement State representative, synchronized swimming

Achievement State representative, netball

Achievement State representative, basketball

Abby

Luciana

Gabbi

YEAR 7

YEAR 9

Achievement State representative, gymnastics

Achievement State representative, swimming

Achievement State representative, basketball

Cristina

Gracie

Rhiannon

YEAR 7

YEAR 9

YEAR 10

Achievement State representative, gymnastics

Achievement State representative, swimming

Achievement State representative, swimming and volleyball

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Sophie

Eilidh

Leah

YEAR 7

YEAR 9

YEAR 10

Achievement State champion, swimming

Achievement State representative, athletics

Achievement National champion and state representative, athletics

Jess

Laura

Sydney

YEAR 10

YEAR 11

YEAR 12

Achievement State representative, athletics

Achievement State pathways representative, rowing

Rosie

Isabella

Anna

YEAR 10

YEAR 11

YEAR 12

Achievement State representative, athletics

Achievement State pathways representative, rowing

Georgia

Emily

Lily

YEAR 10

YEAR 11

YEAR 12

Achievement State representative, netball

Achievement Australian training squad representative, netball

Achievement State pathways representative, rowing

Summer

Alice

Olivia

YEAR 10

YEAR 11

YEAR 12

Achievement State representative, hockey

Achievement State representative, golf

Achievement Australian representative, kayaking

Alessia

Elyse

YEAR 11

YEAR 12

Achievement State pathways representative, rowing

Achievement State representative, rowing

Year 10 Camp During the month of August, the Year 10 cohort spent 10 days in the scenic Ninghan Station, the land of the Badimaya First Nations people. Each day we practised setting and packing up our campsite, preparing meals, navigating our hikes, and finding the perfect place to dig our toilet, all in preparation to spend 24 hours unaccompanied. A collective highlight for many groups was dinner time, as it was an opportunity for everyone in the group to work together. Dinner was a time where we could do something we would all enjoy and have fun doing it. Eating dinner around the campfire and

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under the bright stars was undeniably an incredible way to reflect and end each night. Being away and disconnected from the suburban life of Perth reminded us how little we truly need to live a fulfilling life and helped us focus and be grateful for the people, land, and animals around us. Our group appreciated our surroundings by making flower crowns, taking many pictures, and watching the sunrise and set while singing our favourite songs.

From the physically and mentally challenging hikes, to spending time away from Perth, camp was definitely not just a 10-day sleepover. Through all these shared struggles we helped each other push through, building many new friendships with our peers and bringing everyone in our groups closer than ever. A massive thanks to Ash for welcoming us onto the beautiful land, as well as all the OEG and PC staff involved for creating an amazing opportunity for many memories we will never forget.

Dalena, Lauren and Caitlin

IGSSA Athletics Champion School Perth College emerged as the overall Champion School at the 2023 IGSSA Athletics Carnival on Tuesday 12 September. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the dedication, perseverance, and teamwork of our students, our HPE staff and athletics coaches. The last time Perth College achieved this success was in 2011, making this year’s triumph even more special, marking over a decade since our last Athletics championship.

Some outstanding highlights include our Year 9 group claiming the overall first position, followed by our Year 7 and Year 10 groups showcasing their talent and securing an overall second position. In addition, our School excelled both in field and track events, winning second place in the field pennant and an impressive first position in the track pennant. These achievements underline the versatility and skill of our athletes across various disciplines.

Over the past semester, more than 100 athletes have demonstrated unwavering commitment and tenacity. From early morning training to afterschool track sessions, these students have put their heart and soul into preparing for this event. Their relentless determination has paid off, resulting in a well-deserved overall first position.

Our students have not only celebrated their individual successes but have also been a source of inspiration and encouragement for one another. This collaborative spirit reflects the values we uphold within our school community, where each student is not only capable of achieving greatness but also has the ability to exemplify the courage to push boundaries.

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This victory is a collective effort and demonstrates what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared goal in mind. This victory is a collective effort and demonstrates what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared goal in mind. Lastly, it was a privilege to have Judith Cottier, former Principal of Perth College (1987 to 2002), in attendance to support the school. Thirty-five years ago it was her dream to win the IGSSA Athletics Carnival and this year she was able to witness her dream come alive. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our talented athletes and hope this success inspires us to continue to work hard and achieve success.

Kim Anile ACTING SPORT DIRECTOR

Among the outstanding highlights of this victory is the remarkable achievement of securing the overall first position by our Year 9 students. This was closely follwed by our Year 7 and Year 10 studetns showcasing their exceptional talent and securing an overall second position.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our talented athletes and hope this success inspires us to continue to work hard and achieve success

Sports Update

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Caring 39

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Anglicare Sleepout On Friday 11 August, 25 students attended the Anglicare Sleepout at Optus Stadium, to experience what it's like for some youth who sleep on the streets every night. The night was filled with simulations and activities designed to mimic homelessness including loud sirens to wake us up, sleeping on cardboard and learning about the frustrations of sorting out housing accommodations, applying for Centre Link and identification -some of the real issues experienced by the homeless youth. It was an extremely eye opening and humbling experience that has taught all of

us to have more compassion for those who are homeless and their experience. Team Perth College collectively fundraised $20,653 for Street Connect, an Anglicare initiative assisting young people going through tough times; helping them find accommodation, resources and provide the support they need. Thank you to the Perth College community for your support.

Grace and Mia SERVICE CAPTAINS

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River School Wardndoolier Acknowledgement of Country We acknowledge that we stand on Whadjuk Noongar land. We are very grateful that we have the opportunity to play in the Derbyl Yerrigan. We are thankful for nature. The plants as green as can be, the river as blue as the skies, flowers and animals as precious as treasure. We acknowledge all the wonderful wisdom our Elders have. We will take care of Warndoolier for our Elders past, present and emerging. (Written by Year 2 Students)

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In today's fast-paced and technologydriven world, it is increasingly important for children to connect with nature and develop a sense of appreciation for the environment. To develop this learning, our Year 1 and 2 students have been visiting Banks Reserve (Warndoolier) weekly as part of their sparc sessions. Here they have immersed themselves in nature, splashing in the river in rain, hail or shine.

To truly appreciate the Swan River (Derbyl Yerrigan) the girls have been taught the art of mindfulness and being present in the moment. Through guided breathing exercises and journal writing, they have learned to quiet their minds and focus on their surroundings. River School places great emphasis on cultivating gratitude towards the land. They have been motivated to be ‘River Recyclers’, collecting rubbish and thinking about how to be more sustainable. By spending time outdoors, the children have also

S PE CIAL EVENTS

developed a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things. They take great joy in discovering a new creature, or species of plant. It is delightful to see the children’s faces light up when they are given the freedom and time to tune into the beauty of their local environment.

“I am grateful for the animals like the red tail-black cockatoo in the trees.” – Lauren (Year 2)

“I am thankful to learn outside.” – Elsa (Year 2) “We have to look after the land - only take things from the ground, leave things that we find. We must care for nature.” – Lexi (Year 1) “River days are the best days ever!” – Faith (Year 1)

PC Out Yonder Cultural Immersion Tour PC Out Yonder Laverton 2023 The Perth College Service Learning and Cultural Immersion Tour is designed to make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged Australian children. For eight days, students immersed themselves in the program where they had the chance to tutor, mentor, and empower young learners at Laverton Primary School. This year, the program was done in partnership with Shooting Stars and Teach Learn Grow (TLG). TLG is a program that provides free tutoring and mentoring to children in rural and remote Australian communities. The Shooting Stars program is an initiative that supports young Aboriginal

women in school-based settings in Western and South Australia.

Indigenous and non-Indigenous girls in school completion rates.

Through these partnerships with TLG and Shooting Stars, PC Students learned the skills to effectively tutor primary school children and how to boost student attendance and selfesteem by encouraging students to look beyond and talk about future pursuits. This training also assisted our students in helping the students in Laverton improve their skills, confidence, and academic outcomes, while having fun and building positive relationships. It was wonderful for our students to be part of a team that aims to reduce the gap between

Whilst in the Laverton community, students also had the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the Wangkatja Nation through many community-led and school-based organised activities. This Tour is a special chance for students to not only help others but also learn and grow themselves.

Student Reflections Honey Ant Experience “Wahyee – Hello, how are you are? Today, we had an amazing educational experience of the Honey Ant Tour by the Elders, Marjorie and Edie, who guided us on the journey to find and dig for delicious Honey Ants. We were first given the challenge to spot the Worker Ants, which helped identify that the Honey Ant chamber were below the surface near the Mulga Trees. It was a real task to try and find the Worker Ants amongst all the nature and red dirt, but once we spotted one, the next challenge to find the Honey Ant chambers began which Elder, Marjorie dug with precision to reveal the Honey Ant chambers. Everyone got a turn to try this once-in-a-lifetime snack, a pop of delectable sweetness with a bit of tang. After learning how the Tjupan people used Honey Ants to survive the harsh desert climate and how to eat the Honey Ants, we were greeted with an amazing array of stew, fresh damper and fruit. The chicken and veggie stew was the best lunch I have ever had! The rice and damper were also a 10/10 experience. I will cherish this opportunity forever and feel so grateful I got to experience it.” Bayloogna Oodannagnagnu - Good bye, that’s it!

Emily (YEAR 11)

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“On Thursday, the PC Out Yonder Team ventured into an exciting bush

NAIDOC Days at Laverton School

day with the community of Laverton including the Primary School.

“This year, students on the PC Out Yonder Tour

Community Bush Day When we arrived, we played games with the kids and got ready for our rotations. The first rotation included yarn braiding of the Aboriginal colours, which we could wear in our hair, and we also taught some of the kids how to braid and fashion the yarn into accessories to wear for the day. Our next rotation was weaving dolls which was taught by Elder, Beryl. The dolls were made of raffia [to represent the natural grass that is used traditionally] and wool. The raffia was formed into a shape and then wrapped tightly with yarn to form the body. Beryl taught Mrs. Guglielmana to engineer a Bush Needle to help with threading the wool through the Raffia to give the doll some shape. This was how Beryl was taught to make needles by her mother. Beryl talked us through the steps as we added legs to our dolls. It was nice to sit around and talk to each other as we created our beautiful dolls. The final rotation of the day was face painting. We paired up with a student and took turns painting each other's faces. There were many colours available to be used including both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander colours. Then it was time for lunch! There was a wide selection of food, ranging from Kangaroo Tails to Hot Dogs. There were also stews and roasted vegetables that had been cooked through the fire. We all sat around the campfire and ate our lunch. We jumped into the buses and headed back to the school for showers. That evening, we were challenged to a game of LaserTag by the senior school students. After settling down and watching a movie we followed this with a cutthroat game of laser tag in the dark. We were rewarded with freshly baked cupcakes and sat around yarning with some of the students.”

were lucky enough to embark on a cultural experience in Laverton and partake in their NAIDOC Week celebration. We had heaps of fun learning about First Nations culture and began the week by participating in the community march to the Shire Hall. We listened to the many speeches as the community acknowledged the Elders of the area. The following day there was many activities to be involved in including face painting, lantern making, or playing Netball and Basketball with The Shooting Stars as they challenged the community team. The Stephen Michael Foundation also challenged us with some AFL skills – we were up against some natural footballers! We had great fun running Bingo with the Elders and loved creating rhymes when calling out the numbers. We even learnt how to make traditional damper using the ingredients that the Wongutha people use. Did you know that a Damper is made differently depending on where you come from? We have learnt so much from this NAIDOC Week experience and can’t wait to learn more.”

Stella, Imala and Belle

Written by PC Out Yonder Students 45

Student Highlights “During our tour I helped a young boy learn how to ride a bike. This was so rewarding and very emotional to see someone persevere. It had taken him nine years to just get him onto a bike and to be a part of his journey has changed my life forever.” - Felicity “Throughout this experience, I have gained a new perspective and appreciation. My highlight was connecting with the students, knowing that I have just been a part of a wonderful journey for both of us and them opening up and inviting me to play dragons – this was such a rewarding opportunity that has been life-changing, to be a part.” - Isabel “Throughout this trip, I have felt so much love and appreciation for all the kids I worked with. Isaiah, little boy I was tutoring, finally, at Year 4 level was able to complete a math equation without the help or guidance of a tutor, a hard one to put it at that! His little face showed how proud he was of himself and a look like that can never be forgotten.” - Laila

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“During this trip I have gained so much new knowledge about First Nations culture and traditions. I learnt how to find honey ants, how to make wombats from raffia and wool and many more things. I got to tutor a Year One student named Mia. She was so sweet and it was heartwarming to know that tutoring her made a little difference in her life. This has been one of the most incredible experiences of my life and something that I will never forget. I am forever grateful for this opportunity.” - Imala “This trip to Laverton has given me the opportunity to learn so much about the life of the community. I have honestly had the best time during this trip and gained a better understanding of how different it is for the children in Laverton, and the difficulties most of them face. I really appreciate getting to have this experience and will cherish the memories I made forever. Overall, I can genuinely say that everyone should go on a similar program, as it really is life-changing even if that sounds generic.” - Belle

“This Laverton trip provided an amazing opportunity to learn what it is like in a remote community. It was amazing and such a privilege to help tutor/mentor at Laverton School. To see the students, grow in their maths skills and personalities was amazing. We got to know each and every one of those kids as we formed long-lasting friendships. This opportunity, friendship and memories are ones I will remember forever.” - Melissa “The PC Out Yonder journey to Laverton was certainly an unforgettable one. One of my highlights was the Bush Day. The day began in the Year 1 and 2 classrooms. We then took our bus 20 minutes into the bush where we arrived at our spot. We participated in braiding, weaving and face painting with some of the Elders. I loved being out in the bush with all the kids and seeing the pure joy on their faces when they found a good spot for a cubby. I have loved the experience and would 100% do it again.” - Bethany

Boarders in the Community Volunteering allows individuals to contribute to something greater than themselves, giving them a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Knowing that you’re making a positive impact on the lives of others can be incredibly rewarding. The Boarding House at Perth College has a strong focus on community building. Volunteering strengthens this sense of community by fostering relationships among individuals who share these common interests and goals, allowing them to take action and make a positive difference in areas that they care about. Volunteering in the community empowers our students to feel that they have a voice and can contribute to positive societal change. Over the last few months, our Boarders have volunteered with with Ocean Heroes – Surfing the Spectrum, Juniper St Davids, Telethon Superfins Learn to Swim, giving them the opportunity to enhance their communication, leadership and teamwork skills. Our girls have improved their problem-solving and time-management skills during all kinds of situations where they have been challenged, and we have seen immense personal growth from these experiences.

community. It has also broadened their perspectives and increased their understanding of the world around them. Best of all, Perth College Boarders are setting a positive example for others including family members, friends, and future generations, encouraging a culture of giving back and inspiring others to get involved in the joy of giving.

A focus of boarding at Perth College is allowing Boarders to expand and nurture social networks. Through volunteering, they have had the opportunity to bring people together from diverse backgrounds and help the girls learn about different cultural and social issues within the

St Michaels Day

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