The Crest

THE ST MICHAEL'S GRAMMAR SCHOOL MAGAZINE

ISSUE 4 2020

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Contents WELCOME

14 St Michael’s Virtual Choir Project

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15 St Michael’s star footballer Winnie selected by Carlton

A moment with Mrs Terrie Jones

STORIES FROM ACROSS THE SCHOOL

17 Independent Schools Victoria: Survey Results

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Supporting the Class of 2020

19 How do we view children?

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A letter from the Co-Captains of the School

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Thank you to our supportive community

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Meet Ms Emma McDonald – Director of Curriculum

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Recognising the importance of Health and Physical Education in the online learning period

10 Pride and Inclusion Day at St Michael’s 11 Jumping for joy 12 Let’s get physical – Taking our annual Aerobics Competition online 13 Inspired Art: My Window

In our ongoing quest to minimise the School’s environmental impact, hard copies of The Crest are printed on 99% FSC recycled paper.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS 22 Ongoing connections with our Old Michaelian Community 24 Celebrating our Volunteers 25 Beyond the School Gates 26 St Michael’s Parent Community Association – Fostering a vibrant community 29 Giving Day 30 Preserving St Michael’s history 31 The Art of Being Different

" In the past, educational discourse has acknowledged the importance of the home-school partnership but in this pandemic year, we have all danced together on a shifting carpet of momentous proportions and at dizzying speed"

A moment with Mrs Terrie Jones In 2010 I read a book written by Dr Leoni Degenhardt, an educational leader I admire very much. The book titled, Dancing on a Shifting Carpet: Reinventing Traditional Schooling for the 21st Century was born out of her work leading a school in Sydney and based on the work she had recently undertaken for her doctoral thesis. In it she argued that a paradigm shift in education was necessary and that an important precursor to that shift would be a change in the way educational leaders, specifically Principals, lead schools. A decade on and much has changed in education and progressive schools like St Michael’s have led much of the thinking around how to prepare students for a world that is, as ever, uncertain and complex, where we are more interdependent than ever before and where new and creative ways of thinking and doing are urgently required.

Dr Degenhardt’s subsequent work as Dean of the Association of Independent Schools Leadership Centre framed the leadership required to transform schools as ‘purposeful partnership’ and I think the challenges posed by 2020 have brought that into sharp relief and rendered it a reality.

In the past, educational discourse has acknowledged the importance of the home-school partnership but in this pandemic year, we have all danced together on a shifting carpet of momentous proportions and at dizzying speed.

And while not all of the ‘dance’ was elegant or choreographed to perfection – there have been challenges, stumbles, pivots, corrections and even some bruised toes – our routines have been mostly effective, endlessly creative and importantly, built upon shared values, deep listening and mutual respect.

This edition of The Crest includes some of the voices of the partners in this incredible community – our students, our staff, our parents and our alumni. They are representative of you, of me, of this place and time. Please know how grateful I am to all of you for together we engaged in this purposeful partnership and made manifest ‘The School’, this school named for St Michael, in its extraordinary 125th Anniversary Year. I am certain that editions such as this one will serve as a record of our journey and hopefully, inspire and console future generations of Michaelians as they confront and crest the challenges of their time.

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STORIES FROM ACROSS THE SCHOOL

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Supporting the Class of 2020 For all students at St Michael’s and across Victoria, 2020 has been a year like no other. Particularly for students in Year 12, a year which can feel overwhelming, even without a global pandemic. Facing the additional challenges of remote learning and isolation from friends, our Year 12 students have demonstrated their resilience and developed skills that will benefit them long into the future. “ We thank our Year 12 students for their courage, resilience and good humour in facing the challenges the year has presented. The pride in their achievements is shared across the whole School.”

– Ben Jeacocke, Director (10-12) Finishing secondary school is a rite of passage that brings with it a series of events and celebrations. To support Year 12 during this time, the School has been shifting faceto-face events to virtual presentations, to help guide students into the next stage of their lives.

As students turn 18, the annual Enrol to Vote presentation from the Victorian Electoral Commission highlighted the importance of engaging in the democratic process. Rather than the regular presentation in the school atrium, this year featured a virtual presentation from Amy Carpenter at the VEC. 2

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CAREERwise sessions have focussed on helping the Year 12 students with how to write a great cover letter and how to build a CV, which will be highly beneficial in preparing students for their next steps beyond St Michael’s.

While students considered the careers or pathways they may pursue after school, they also had the opportunity to hear from sports media personality, physiotherapist, and former nominee for Young South Australian of the Year, Nathan Strempel. At the ‘100 Days to Success’ event, Nathan shared his story with the Year 12 cohort and reminded the group of the importance of keeping active, music, laughter, mindful breathing, goal setting, and expressing gratitude. He emphasised that what we do for work does not define who we are, and that “if the journey doesn’t go as planned, it doesn’t mean we are not going to like the destination.” “ Embrace what it is that makes you unique. There is so much power and fulfilment in that.” – Nathan Strempel The conclusion of a student’s time at St Michael’s is Valedictory Day, which in 2020 we reimagined so that students, parents and staff could enjoy the occasion in a way that ensured the health and wellbeing of our whole community. Though the Year 12 cohort could not gather for a final assembly or Chapel service, the key elements of

celebration remained. Features such as individual picnic boxes, small House meetings, a physically distanced candle lighting ceremony, and a live-streamed Valedictory Dinner captured the very special spirit of Valedictory Day in the current environment.

Additionally, the School is giving the Year 12 students a special feature in the 2020 edition of our yearbook, The Michaelian, to celebrate their resilience and exceptional strength. We are also postponing the Year 12 formal until 2021, when it will take the form of both a celebration of the students’ time at St Michael’s and a reunion. We look forward to continuing the celebrations with Year 12, 2020!

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“ To the class of 2020, thank you for your communal strength, grit, innovation, jokes, authenticity and resilience. We may have wobbled and occasionally felt like we were drowning – but we stayed afloat.

We made it.”

– Lucy and Tom, Co-Captains of the School, 2020

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Year 12 students at Valedictory Day

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Students enjoyed their final day at School

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Every Year 12 student was addressed with a farewell speech from a chosen member of Staff

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Nathan Strempel speaking to Year 12

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Students creatively altered their uniforms for Valedictory Day

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Deputy Head of the School Mr Gerard Houlihan addressing students at the virtual Valedictory Dinner

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The Class of 2020 enjoying their achievements on Valedictory Day

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A letter from the Co-Captains of the School Essentially, this is our thank you letter.

First, thank you to all the students who engaged in remote learning for the longest period – Years 8 to 10. We missed your four-square games and Coleman Walk noise. Thank you for your tenacity and for tuning into all our strange COVID content – from student assemblies to informational videos to question forum initiatives.

To Year 7 and 11, thank you for providing some normality at school and for backing the initiatives that you believed in, like Pride and Inclusion Day, the Sacred Heart Mission Drive-Through Donation Day, or the AIME fundraiser events. Upon your return onsite you were grateful, enthusiastic and relaxed – you just got on with it in style.

To all the members of the SRC, a special thanks to you. For this new mechanism to be used so authentically and purposefully, with so many people showing up to each meeting with things to say, ideas to action and a willingness to listen to each other and represent the people around them was beyond epic.

We were in awe of how effective this tool was used by all of you.

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To the Class of 2020, we may have nearly become the Class of 2021 for a second there, but thank you for your communal strength, grit, innovation, jokes, authenticity and resilience. We may have wobbled and occasionally felt like we were drowning – but we stayed afloat. We made it – we did not sink – and we couldn’t be prouder.

To St Michaels’ as a whole, the staff and particularly Mrs Jones – thank you for having us, persisting with our silent and faceless online existences and treating us with respect and care as we all confronted a particularly vulnerable period. We really felt like you had our backs this year.

Thank you for trusting us with these whacky roles and for reading our thank you letter.

And just to reiterate – thank you.

With love and warm regards,

Tom and Lucy Thomas Hill and Lucy Grant, Co-Captains of the School, 2020

“I just want you to know that we’re thinking of you, we’re very proud of you, and we’re wishing you all the best for the coming weeks” – Sue Loughlin (OM 1972)

“Look after yourselves and each other, and know that all Old Michaelians are on your team.”

– Dave Baker (OM 1986)

“Be kind to yourselves and be kind to others around you.”

– Alastair Weng (OM 2014)

“Remember to look after yourselves. Not just COVID-wise, but mentally and physically. Make sure you are getting enough rest. And just know, that no matter how your results go, we’re all proud of you.” – Izzi Dymalovski (OM 2019)

Well wishes from Old Michaelians Old Michaelians from across the decades came together virtually to wish our Year 12 students all the best at their recent virtual Valedictory Dinner. Here are few quotes from our Old Michaelian community, sharing their love and support.

Congratulations and all the best to the St Michael’s Class of 2020!

“It’s an achievement you can all be proud of. You have overcome challenges that have been character building opportunities that will stand you in great stead going forward. I’m really keen to see you out there, on your journeys beyond the gates.”

– Ethan Lawrence (OM 2017)

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Thank you to our supportive community Throughout the year, many in our school community sent letters to acknowledge the unrelenting efforts of staff in ensuring learning continuity and connection. We are incredibly grateful for the support and compassion shown by our wonderful St Michael’s community.

“As a new parent to the school in 2020, this is not at all how I imagined the experience. However, your response to these constantly evolving and unprecedented circumstances have left me in no doubt as to the wisdom of our decision become part of the St Michael’s community.”

“I cannot tell you how thankful I am the girls are at SMGS. You continue to be outstanding in your communication and innovation through this ‘COVID-world’.

Inspirational and acknowledging all, including the entire school community – it is a remarkable effort – and I know from speaking to parents from other schools, SMGS is certainly outshining in your dedication to uphold professionalism, and one with humanity and warmth.

Thank you again to you and the brilliant staff.”

“Once again we are very impressed by your leadership, proactive approach and the certainty this gives our children and family unit. Coincidentally I have spent the last two days working with the Headspace Board and it has served as a reminder that, the certainty and stability you are providing our children through their continued education and connection with the school community is so important. We are very grateful.”

“Thanks for your well-considered plan that enables the students to continue learning during this time when events and information are changing daily. Structure provides certainty and mental safety for our children (and their families!) in these fast-changing times.

Well done to you and your hardworking team!”

“I was treating a young patient this week and we got talking whilst waiting for the surgeon (an old Michaelian!). He is now at Uni and when he asked where my kids were at school his comment was “I always thought I went to the wrong school, don't get me wrong, I really liked my school but every person I have ever met that went to St Michael’s is so ridiculously socially adjusted its crazy, they kind of already know how to live in the world - what is that place?” , lucky the surgeon took a while, so I had time to explain :) , when I had finished he said “Man, I wish I did go to school there, it simply sounds amazing, I didn’t know that schools like that existed.”

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“I just wanted to say I think as a school you have handled this whole situation magnificently and that a school closure on the 19th of March is such a prudent and forward thinking move.

We need to think as a community and not individuals if we are to get through this.

Thank you for being such a calm, strategic and reassuring Principal.”

Meet Ms Emma McDonald – Director of Curriculum A teacher at St Michael’s for almost two decades, Emma has taught English and Drama, and was Head of Breen House and Director (7–9). In 2021, after returning from a year of long service leave to study a Master of Educational Leadership, Emma will return to take on the new challenge of Director of Curriculum.

Having been at the School for many years, Emma has seen a number of cohorts through from Years 7 to 12. In her recent role as Director (7–9), Emma was able to get to know the students well and the types of learning experiences that they valued. These valuable insights and key ideas are what Emma will continue to come back to in her new role.

“I am hoping to honour their voices and insights about their education by ensuring our learning programs maintain rigour and relevancy to them, our learning context at St Michael’s and our world. It’s very important to me that students have an opportunity to find their passion or passions; something that brings them joy now and can also sustain them into the future.”

To Emma, the most important role of a school is to bring each child’s unique talents to the fore and nurture that talent so that they can go and use it for the betterment of the world. The key for Emma is to find creative ways to sustain a student's engagement and help them to become agents of their own learning, so they are making good choices and are accountable to those choices.

“The cognitive, emotional and social development that takes place over that time is extraordinary. I marvel at our students’ sense of curiosity, their bravery, their convictions and their willingness to ‘trial and error’ as they work out who they are and what sort of contribution they want to make to the world.

The fact they can do all that in a supportive environment, where their successes can be celebrated and lessons learned from mistakes, makes a school a pretty special place to be.”

St Michael’s feels like a second home for Emma, where differences are embraced and potential is fully recognised.

Emma believes that one of the key benefits of a St Michael’s

education is that each student has the freedom to explore their individual learning journey.

“I love that students don’t feel pigeon-holed as a particular ‘type’ of student – that is something that many students tell me when I ask them what they like the most about St Michael’s. It’s a place where you can captain the football team and then rush back to the Drama Studio to perform a lead role in the school play. Our students feel safe in the latitude we try to give them to discover things as learners and about themselves.”

Emma’s first passion is drama and performance and she completed a Bachelor of Performing Arts before her teaching degree. While completing her teaching rounds at St Michael’s, Emma was blown away by the quality of the productions and the School’s commitment to all areas of the Arts.

“I could see how much the Performing Arts taught and fulfilled the students and I knew that one day, I wanted to return here to teach. I went and taught at another school and jumped at the chance to come back to St Michael’s as soon as an English and Drama teaching role came up.”

Outside of School, Emma has also been busy during lockdown, being teacher to her two sons in Prep and Year 5.

“Most of my spare time is taken up with spending time with family and friends – a great privilege that we all probably took for granted until it was something we could no longer do over Melbourne’s lockdown.”

Emma has also taken up dance classes again this year, which she has managed to continue during the lockdown period.

“Dance classes have been a lot of fun, particularly once they moved online and I could learn some Broadway and Jazz moves in my lounge room where no one could see me!”

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Recognising the importance of Health and Physical Education in the online learning period

“ Mental health awareness is about recognising what you are feeling, like happiness or anxiousness, and using techniques to make you feel better” – Jay, Year 8 student

Indigo (Year 6) on a run with her dog during the remote learning period

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Health and Physical Education (HPE) Day is a nationwide initiative that highlights the importance of HPE in the Australian Curriculum, and its influence on the learning and development of children and young adults. The theme of this year’s HPE day, held on Wednesday 2 September, was Good for Children, Good for Schools and Good for Communities.

We were excited to recognise this day to honour our creative and engaging Health and Physical Education programs across K to 12 at St Michael’s. Although our HPE classes looked a little different this year, the circumstances have allowed us to reimagine how the learning in Health and Physical Education can be translated safely into students’ homes.

The outcome of quality HPE is health and physical literacy.

When we consider English literacy, we think of the ability to apply the English language. It is not enough to know the alphabet, or how to read the words on a page. Someone who is literate takes meaning from what they read. They have the confidence, motivation and disposition to put the English language to use for the enrichment of their own life. We think of health and physical literacy in the same way. While knowledge and skills are a start, a person who understands health and physical activity can have the confidence, motivation and disposition to apply these skills in meaningful, transferrable ways.

In 2020, we have found a new benefit of health and physical literacy. Our ability to transfer skills has never been tested as it has this year. Individuals who are literate have been able to find new ways to achieve the same important outcomes.

Neighbours are rediscovering their local parks, lifting dumbbells has been swapped for lifting cans of soup, and swimmers have found ways to improve their cardiovascular fitness on dry land.

We are all recognising the importance of social connection through physical activity and are using advanced technology to maintain those important bonds for our wellbeing.

St Michael’s students have been applying their understanding of physical literacy during their own Health, Physical Education and Personal Wellbeing classes. In PE class, Year 1 student Liam created a hand washing sign to stick above his bathroom sink. He said, “when I forget, I can look at it and it will remind me”. Year 6 student Millie, when researching health messages in the media, reflected that getting outside and being active “is

Tom (Year 11) practising balancing positions at home

healthy for us humans, and exercise clears my mind”. Year 8 student Jay shared that he likes to kick a soccer ball against a wall as a technique to help relieve stress.

Robert, in Year 7, has been jumping on the trampoline to improve his cardiovascular endurance as part of his personalised Training Program Challenge. Year 10 student Anna enjoyed being persistent and resilient when practising her chosen new skill of juggling as part of a Personal Wellbeing task. Finally, Thomas, in Year 11, has been practising interesting balance positions in addition to other physical activities throughout the day. He reflected that this helps him break up long periods of sitting, with the benefits of maintained focus and concentration. Thomas noted his selfefficacy in balancing has dramatically improved. These are all wonderful examples of students demonstrating health and physical literacy in action.

In the lead-up to national HPE Day on Wednesday 2 September, the St Michael’s community participated in a raft of healthy initiatives. Years 5 and 6 students competed in School Sport Victoria’s Virtual Athletics, Aerobics teams trained for the Virtual House Aerobics competition, and the K to 6 House Captains led a House Ninja Warrior competition.

Students from Years 7 to 12 connected through the SMGS Strava Club and also participated in the ‘Iso Trick Shots’ competition. Personal Wellbeing classes were tailored to help students in Years 7 to 10 embrace and enhance elements of their physical, social, emotional, mental and spiritual health to support them as they learnt from home. Staff members too stayed active, counting their steps in a virtual walk from Adelaide to Melbourne as part of the Commit to Being Fit Challenge.

As we recognised Health and Physical Education Day, we challenged our St Michael’s community to spend some time each day outside, in the fresh air, to go for a walk or run, complete a home-fitness circuit or just to walk the dog.

Mr Daniel Zito, Acting Director of Physical Education and Sport (K-6) and Miss Emma Cowan, Head of Health and Physical Education (7-12)

The Staff Fitness Challenge Map

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Pride and Inclusion Day at St Michael’s On Monday 20 July, St Michael’s celebrated Pride and Inclusion Day. An annual event in the School calendar, Pride and Inclusion Day is when we celebrate the wonderfully diverse nature of our population, and raise awareness and acceptance for the LGBTQIA+ community.

“The key message is to be kind, accept and celebrate each other.” – Mrs Terrie Jones, Head of the School Our Year 12 student leaders organised a raft of physically distanced activities to mark this special occasion, including a lunchtime dance party, a block rainbow colour dress code, and the decoration of Coleman Walk with rainbow flags, a symbol of LGBTQIA+ pride. Together, the School community raised money for Minus 18, an organisation championing and creating safe spaces for queer youth.

“We hope that today is one of reinforced confidence, safety, comfort and strength for members of the LGBTIQA+ community, and one of listening, learning, adjustment and growth for others”. – Lucy and Tom, Co-Captains of the School Co-Captains of the School Lucy and Tom (both 12H) also announced a new Pride Resource Hub for St Michael’s students and staff. Housed on SchoL, the Hub is a starting 10

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place for the wider School community to discover how to be effective allies, and a space for LGBTQIA+ people to seek support, and to feel safe and empowered.

As part of the celebrations, we had the opportunity to hear from special guest speaker Seb, a Workshop Presenter at Minus 18, at the Years 7 to 12 Virtual Astor Assembly. Seb spoke about his experience as a transmasculine person, the importance of normalising conversations around preferred pronouns, and why you cannot assume a person’s gender identity. Seb also educated us about the long history of transgender people and offered helpful tips on how to be a good ally.

“To me, an ally is someone who could be a friend.

Someone who will be supportive, listen, learn and grow with you, but also someone who is willing to speak and stand up for you.” – Seb, Minus 18 Workshop Presenter.

You can visit the Minus 18 website for helpful and informative resources.

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Prep student Zara with her Pride artwork

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Ponie and Lucy (Year 12) dressed in their block rainbow colours

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Pride bunting on Coleman Walk

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Seb from Minus 18 presenting at our Astor Assembly

Jumping for joy For all our students, returning to the St Michael’s campus was a very exciting moment. Our younger students in particular were unable to hide their joy! Kindergarten to Year 2 students beamed as they ran, jumped, threw and hurdled for their House at the K-2 Athletics Carnival in Term 4.

Thank you to our Year 6 leaders who led the events and helped their younger peers throughout the Carnival.

Students in Kindergarten to Year 2 participate in noncompetitive events throughout the year, which celebrate student learning and encourage the development of team spirit.

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Let’s get physical – Taking our annual Aerobics Competition online Creativity has always been the hallmark of a St Michael’s education. Our image of the child as capable has, at its core, a commitment to the idea that all students can be supported to use their imagination and skills to create something new. Creativity is valued within and beyond our curriculum programs, and throughout 2020 our students continued to impress us with their creative responses to challenges presented by the pandemic. The Virtual House Aerobics Competition was demonstrative of this creativity.

The annual House Aerobics Competition is a longstanding event in the School sporting calendar, alongside House Athletics, Swimming, and Cross Country. Each year, teams from our five Senior Houses: Breen, Hughes, Kilburn, Mitre and Sarum, come together and design routines, make song choices, and practice together, before entertaining the School with their energetic performances.

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Led by the House Aerobics Captains, the dedicated students learnt choreography and filmed themselves performing the routines individually at home. They each sent the films in to be edited by their peers, who created high-energy ensemble performances. The student coaches and video editors did an excellent job in replicating the House Aerobics experience virtually.

A big congratulations to Mitre House for winning the overall competition, and well done to all teams for their creative performances and high-quality video productions.

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Kilburn House's Senior team performance

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Our Robotics Club watching the House Aerobics Carnival live stream

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Co-Captains of the School Lucy and Tom hosted the event in a variety of fun costumes

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Inspired Art: My Window In Term 3 2020, while students were learning from home, the Art Club launched a school-wide competition named ‘My Window’. Inspired by David Hockney’s collection by the same name, the challenge was to create an artwork which captured the view of the outside world from inside your home.

Artists could choose to create their work digitally like Hockney, or to use other mediums they had available at home.

The only restriction of the competition was that a window frame had to be included in the artwork.

To assist in the competition, the Art Club offered a range of resources, as well as its weekly lunchtime meetings online.

Thank you to all the students and staff who so beautifully captured the view from their window at home. Well done to the following students who were shortlisted as the Top 10! Sinclair (5P), Georgia (6I), Henri (2M), Mia (2M), Audrey (5P), Clive (10B), Tilda (11S), Lily (9K), Kate (9S), and August (8H). These finalists were presented to our esteemed judges, Deputy Head of the School Mr Gerard Houlihan, and Associate Head K-6, Mrs Nicole Armatas. A special congratulations to Sinclair and Clive, who were announced as the winners.

1. Clive (10B), 2. Sinclair (5P), 3. Henri (2M), 4. Kate (9S), 5. Audrey (5P), 6. Tilda (11S), 7. Lily (9K) The Crest Issue 4 2020

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St Michael’s Virtual Choir Project In August, we were thrilled to share with our community the St Michael’s Virtual Choir Project – a very special recording of the School Hymn, ‘Jesus, Glorious Prince of Angels’.

When faced with the reality of the 2020 school year, the Performing Arts faculty developed this entirely new project, to spread joy and to celebrate St Michael’s 125th Anniversary.

The recordings were conducted over the months of May and June, while the students took part in online and remote learning.

Congratulations to all our talented students and staff for bringing to life such a poignant and uplifting version of ‘Jesus, Glorious Prince of Angels’. The Hymn holds enduring significance not just to our students, but also to Old Michaelians and the School’s founders, the Community of the Sisters of the Church.

The response to the School Hymn video was enormously positive, and in October, the Harrison Choir (Years 10 to 12) treated us to a new Virtual Choir Project – a moving rendition of ‘That Lonesome Road’.

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Thank you to Gary Ekkel, our Head of Choral (K-12), Adam Donaldson, Jennifer Gillan, and all the Music Staff for bringing these projects to life and for capturing so beautifully a significant moment in the School’s history.

" This wonderful initiative goes to the very heart of our St Michael’s community and will be an enduring legacy of 2020."

– Mrs Terrie Jones, Head of the School

1. The School performs 'Jesus, Glorious Prince of Angels' 2 & 3. The Years 10 to 12 Harrison Choir perform 'That Lonesome Road'

Winnie playing in the 2019 ACS season

Winnie with St Michael's teammates

St Michael’s star footballer Winnie selected by Carlton St Michael’s Football Captain, Winnie, dreamt of playing AFLW alongside her heroes. In October, that dream became a reality when she was drafted to the Carlton Football Club.

The powerful midfielder has a sporting background in basketball and athletics, but in recent years found her place on the football field.

“I love the competitiveness and the hard work you have to put in, and the culture in a footy team is unlike anything else. I love the environment where everyone has the same goal, and everyone has your back.”

Growing up, Winnie was a Richmond fan, however in recent years has grown a soft spot for Carlton, due to star player Patrick Cripps becoming her favourite player in the league.

Then, when Winnie saw the Carlton AFLW team play live, Carlton became her favourite club in the Women’s league.

Being selected by your club of choice is rare for any prospective draftee, so Winnie is understandably thrilled to begin playing alongside her heroes.

“My favourite AFLW players are from Carlton, such as Katie Loynes and Maddy Prespakis, so I’m very lucky I have ended up there.”

With a few leadership positions under her belt, Carlton are already speculating if Winnie will become ‘Katie Loynes 2.0’.

In 2020, Winnie was named Club Captain of Sandringham Dragons and Captain of St Michael’s Girls side. Six of her Sandringham teammates were also drafted to the AFLW with one of them, Daisy Walker, joining her at Carlton.

In 2020, the AFLW Draft process was completely virtual. The Draft Combine occurred over a weekend, which included submitting a time for a 2km time trial and taking part in virtual interviews with each of the interested clubs. One week later,

the Draft was streamed online, and Winnie watched nervously at home with her family. “It was pretty nerve-racking to watch, but also super exciting.” The very next day, Winnie was already participating in interviews and meetings with Carlton.

“Everyone at Carlton, from the coaches to the players, are so welcoming. I already feel at home. Everyone is so talented and it’s such a humbling experience to be a part of.”

The following week, Winnie launched into her first training session with the team. To adhere to restrictions at the time, the club placed players in groups of ten to participate in “prepre-season” training, in areas such as skills and strength. In early November, the pre-season officially kicked off ahead of the AFLW season in early 2021. On the training schedule, Winnie said “it’s going to be a lot of hard work, but also a lot of fun.”

Winnie has a lot to look forward to. She’s very excited to be a part of Carlton Football Club, to form new connections, and to become the “best player and person I can be,” under the guidance of her new coaches, managers and their “top notch” resources. She hopes to have a “good pre-season, a successful 2021 for the blue baggers, and hopefully to play a few games too!”

More than anything, Winnie is excited to be a part of the rapidly expanding AFLW movement.

“The thing that excites me most is how fast Girls footy is growing, even from a few years ago. We don’t really know what footy will look like for us in a few years, and I think that’s the most exciting part.”

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Col’s Scholarship a path to success Congratulations to Year 11 student and World Para Swimming medallist Col, who has won a 2021 Sport Australia Hall of Fame Scholarship. The Scholarships acknowledge the incredible efforts of young athletes and help them reach the highest level of their sport.

“I always feel proud and honoured when I am recognised for my swimming, and I am truly grateful to be given this Scholarship. This Scholarship will assist in helping me make the Tokyo 2021 Paralympic Swim Team and give me the opportunity of a lifetime.” – Col (11B) Col becoming a Bronze Medallist at the World Para Swimming Championships in 2019 (Photo credit: Swimming Australia)

With the help of this Scholarship, Col is set to take on the world at the Tokyo 2021 Paralympic Games.

Anica and Mairead – Emerging Leaders Congratulations to Anica (Year 11) and Mairead (Year 10), who respectively won the Senior and Intermediate divisions in this year's ACS Public Speaking Competition, held online in August.

Anica spoke about the Morrison Government’s economic recovery program and how it will affect us for decades to come. “Speaking about an issue I'm passionate about makes me feel empowered,” Anica said.

Mairead argued that Australia will never fully “close the gap” between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, until we listen to First Nations Australians and embrace the Uluru Statement from the Heart. Mairead said, “I had the opportunity to learn and talk about something I am passionate about, and I am grateful for that”.

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Anica and Mairead’s intelligent and thoughtful commentary is a skill that is already leading them to success. Anica will represent St Michael’s as Co-Vice Captain of the School in 2021. Impressively, Mairead has been accepted into the Class of 2022 University of Melbourne Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program, an academic enrichment program designed to support high achieving students in Years 11 and 12.

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Anica presenting at the ACS Public Speaking Competition

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Mairead at our International Women's Day event earlier in 2020

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Independent Schools Victoria: Survey Results Independent Schools Victoria (ISV) aims to create a strong Independent education sector that demonstrates best practice and provides excellent outcomes for students and choice for families. The role of ISV is to advocate for excellence in education, champion member schools, and protect the right of parents to choose where and how their children are educated.

Every second year, ISV conduct a survey, which provides St Michael’s with powerful insights about the effectiveness of our practices. The survey collects data from students, parents and staff and helps us to gain a better understanding of our community’s perceptions of the School, which ultimately assists us in our decision making and improves educational outcomes.

Earlier this year, parents were invited to participate in the ISV survey, where they were asked to answer a variety of questions online. The questions fit into several categories including academic program, quality of teaching, learning outcomes, pastoral care, discipline and safety, parental involvement, resources, year level transition, recommending the School to others, and overall satisfaction. Students were asked questions that related to academic program, discipline and safety, learning outcomes, overall satisfaction, pastoral care, personal development, peer relationships, resources, values, and student transition.

We are pleased to share that in 2020, parents and students reported overall satisfaction above the ISV benchmark across all categories. The benchmark is based on a mean score of all

ISV member schools, which provides a good indicator to how St Michael’s is performing against other similar schools.

Parents reported that their child was happy at St Michael's, that our School offers a safe place to learn, that they have a good relationship with the teaching staff and that the School provides excellent resources for students. Students also reported that they feel safe at St Michael’s, that they are encouraged to do their best, that they have access to quality technology and resources, and that they feel challenged and accepted for who they are. Additionally, students reported that they receive a high level of support from teachers, who they feel are knowledgeable about the subjects they teach.

Importantly, overall satisfaction levels have improved significantly across all categories year on year, since 2017.

Mrs Terrie Jones, Head of the School, is very pleased with the survey results but acknowledges that review is required to ensure continuous improvement each year.

“We are assured that the School is moving in the right direction, however the survey also highlighted areas with which we can improve. These insights are important and we value the time our community invested in providing us with this feedback”.

St Michael’s will continue to survey our community to ensure we are improving all aspects of the student learning experience.

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F E AT U R E

How do we view children?

It is a simple question that can generate a myriad of responses depending, in part, on when you ask it, the reason you ask it and the audience from whom you seek to answer it. The staff who have the privilege of educating our Kindergarten to Year 6 students have, over the course of Terms 3 and 4, revisited this question through the lens of the St Michael’s vision, ‘Creative, inquiring minds learning from, with and for the world’. Periodically it is important for us to revisit our image of the child. This ensures we have a shared understanding and furthermore, in defining our image of the child, we redefine our image of the educator, and collaboratively reflect on our teaching and learning programs.

Longer standing members of the St Michael’s community will understand that our School has been inspired by the tenets of the Reggio Emilia Educational Project over several years. One of those tenets is the ‘image of the child’. Loris Malaguzzi, founder of the Reggio Emilia Educational project, argued that the ‘theory’ you hold of the image of the child shapes your relationships and expectations, it influences how you listen to children and how you view them. In other words, your relationships become a mirror for that image.

Reggio educators believe that there is no one universal definition. This stands to reason. Each society constructs its own view of the child and what the child could and should be. The different views are created by different perspectives, contexts and intentions. Hence, it was very important for us to redefine our image of our students, and the hopes and aspirations we have for them.

At the conclusion of our collaborative contemplation we re-affirmed the St Michael’s image of the child as curious, capable, creative and unique social beings wishing to make a difference to their own and other’s lives. The next level of work is to ensure that our approaches to teaching, learning and caring work together to foster and develop the skills, attitudes and values that will shape their futures as empowered citizens of the world.

At St Michael’s we aim to be a place of exploration and experimentation, allowing for autonomous learning while using explicit instruction to build the key foundational skills that are the basis for higher order thinking. Staff interrogate the data and use this to inform instruction, so that studentcentred authentic learning becomes the focus. Experiences that allow immersion in authentic tasks, while working on problems and issues relevant to children, will bolster

foundational literacy and numeracy skills. We cannot hold this image of the child and continue to deliver a heavily contentbased program that relies more on a regurgitation of facts.

This will not prepare our students for the volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) world they will enter at the end of their schooling.

As educators, we understand that we must prepare students for a world driven by disruptive, scientific and technological advances. The pandemic has highlighted the need for us to educate our students to move from one-way content dissemination to more personalised, self-directed learning.

We believe our children have the dispositions required to not only manage but thrive in an educational model where they will be literate and numerate, develop global competence, where they can reconcile dilemmas and apply critical and creative thinking to take action. With programs that allow for co-construction, a connection to nature, a deeper understanding of our Indigenous people, and allow for research into environmental science, we hope to connect with children and the issues that matter to them. We wish for children to appreciate their agency and capacity to lead in areas of passion in an ever changing world.

It will come as no surprise that creativity was high on our list of attributes to be celebrated and developed at St Michael’s.

We know our children love to question, challenge, trial and express their ideas and knowledge in many ways using a variety of mediums. By defining our students as creative, we commit to designing opportunities for them to explore new possibilities, adapt to challenging situations and solve complex problems. Providing an environment that allows creative exploration and innovation, challenges children to solve problems using innovative techniques is important.

Another essential cognitive skill is the ability to engage with divergent thinking and the opportunity to test multiple ideas to find a best-fit solution. By understanding the research process, we believe our children can unpack a wicked problem and find a range of solutions. Through Professional Learning Teams, every staff member also engages in a research process, where problem-solving and creative thinking is required. We have appointed Learning Leaders in the areas of Literacy, Numeracy, Transdisciplinary Inquiry and Wellbeing.

We must engage in the learning experiences we expect our children to undertake, and we value the opportunity to cocreate a relevant, engaging and innovative learning culture.

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We also defined children as unique individuals who have the capacity to influence and lead. Student agency is rooted in the belief that students have the capability to lead and responsibly effect change. The staff at St Michael’s view our students as social, open minded individuals who wish to work collaboratively with others to exercise their potential to make a difference. Therefore, our job is to allow students to set goals, reflect on them and act responsibly to affect change. Rather than all aspects of their learning being predetermined, we acknowledge that students will have greater motivation to learn when they are able to define some of their own objectives. Co-agency, where teachers and students co-create and co-construct the teaching and learning process, honours the belief we have in children. It also allows educators to co-create and learn from one another, with a focus on peer mentorship across the school to build our own professional expertise.

We acknowledge that for students to be able to exercise their agency, students require foundational skills. Therefore, the ability to read and research, write and communicate, collect and analyse data and be financially literate will liberate children to be able to exercise their agency across 20

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a range of contexts. Our image of the child as agents of change reinforces our belief that our youngest learners can inquire into ideas, problems and theories that excite and motivate them. They learn from, with and for each other, in collaboration with their peers, teachers and the broader community and from this, they will be empowered to determine the next steps for their learning. With the use of technology and platforms such as Seesaw, we are also able to curate a portfolio of their learning.

It is with great excitement that we continue to evolve our programs in line with our image of the St Michael’s student.

The future looks very bright and we look forward to an exciting future with and for our children!

Mrs Nicole Armatas, Associate Head K-6

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Junior students on World Kindness Day

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Prep student Ines with a portrait of her Dad for Father's Day

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Students with Teddy the therapy dog

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Year 2 students in the Octavius Brown Kitchen Garden

S TA F F S P OT L I G H T

Tim Roberts

A LEADER OF POSITIVE LEARNING Health and Personal Development sectors, becoming Head of Faculty in two schools before he arrived at St Michael’s in January 2000. Tim has taught PE and Health at Primary and Secondary Level, as well as Secondary English and Humanities.

“The most gratifying part of my job is to witness the milestones that students achieve - whether it’s learning to read or winning a race. I love the way that makes a student feel and I know that that achievement is often the culmination of efforts by a number of people.”

Tim Roberts’ role as Head of Positive Learning sits at the heart of the St Michael’s community. Over his 20 years at the School, Tim has countless memories to share.

Many of Tim’s favourite memories have been made on the sporting field. Tim has spent most of his career working in the Victorian Physical Education,

Kate Fitzgerald New to St Michael’s in 2020, Ms Kate Fitzgerald’s commencement at the school was anything but ordinary. With the pandemic keeping us all physically distanced, Kate found new ways to engage with her students and admired their positive and resilient attitude throughout the online learning period.

“I’ve loved getting to know my students, which has presented its challenges this year with online learning, however they are all so kind, empathetic and funny!”

Kate immediately felt at home with her fellow colleagues and recognised the unique culture at St Michael’s. “It’s been quite the year to start at a new school but I’ve felt really welcomed and supported throughout this period. The collegiality that exists in the Humanities department and across the entire school is really extraordinary. I’m feeling very lucky to be part of this community.”

Tim also enjoys being active outside of St Michael’s. He enjoys participating in everything from cycling, to golf, lawn bowls, swimming and football. “I love AFL and in particular the St Kilda Football Club.” It’s no wonder that Tim supports St Kilda, growing up with his father Neil Roberts’ Brownlow Medal on the mantlepiece!

Over his time at St Michael’s, Tim has helped many students grow and develop into the people they are today.

“I love seeing the way our students grow as people. I have seen many students progress from Prep to Year 12 in my time at the School, and the qualities of the individuals at the end of the journey is most pleasing to witness.”

Tim has stayed at St Michael’s for the sense of belonging and camaraderie he has found here, as well as the important values upheld by every person in the School community.

“I love the way the School carries forward the foundations set by the Community of the Sisters of the Church in everything we do. The School values of Dignity, Respect, Care and Compassion mean a lot to me.”

“Additionally, I love the sense of community at St Michael’s and I believe this is enhanced by the fact that we are all on the same campus. I also appreciate the sense of collegiately and care amongst staff. Everyone is important, no matter what your position at the School is.”

FINDING HER PLACE AT ST MICHAEL’S With over a decade of experience, Kate now teaches Years 7 to 10 Humanities and VCE subjects including Business Management, Economics and Accounting. “I love my role as a teacher, especially preparing students for their future beyond St Michael’s by empowering them to tread their own path and excel in the areas of their choice.”

Originally from Sydney, Kate moved to Melbourne three years ago but also spent some time living in Canada. “I’m an avid skier so moved to Canada to be closer to the amazing ski resorts. I’m definitely a winter person, so I much prefer the weather here.”

In her spare time, Kate also enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, cooking up various types of cuisines. “I love cooking. Any chance I get, I’ll cook!

Particularly Chinese, Japanese and Mexican. I’m not much of a baker but like most people in lockdown, I did try to make my own bread.”

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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

The Class of 2015 5-year reunion

Ongoing connections with our Old Michaelian Community The Old Michaelian Association Committee (OMAC) and our vibrant community of Old Michaelians rose to the challenges that emerged in 2020 by providing valuable support to our students in their endeavours, fostering community connections and nurturing a sense of belonging within the wider School community. This is evidenced by the significant number of Old Michaelians (OMs) who continue to have a wonderful presence at the School.

Year 12 Support Every year the OMAC hold a Year 12 barbecue and provide treats for Year 12 students to cheer them on as they progress through their studies and head into exams. Unable to provide these usual boosts in 2020, the OMAC chose to take an innovative approach. OMAC member, Joanna Margiolis rallied nearly 40 OMs, spanning the decades, and compiled

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inspirational video messages of them wishing the class of 2020 all the best for their upcoming exams. The video was played as the conclusion to a very successful Virtual Valedictory Dinner and the students were delighted and buoyed by these special messages. The messages were also posted on the St Michael’s social media channels throughout the exam period to reinforce the wonderful support from the OM community.

At the Virtual Valedictory Dinner, we were delighted to welcome back disability advocate and St Michael’s parent, Mandy McCracken (OM 1991), to carry out the tradition of officially welcoming the class of 2020 into our Old Michaelian community. Mandy, who also featured in Episode 1 of our Stories from the Crest podcast series, also presented the Old Michaelian badge to the students on behalf of the Old Michaelian Association. The badge was an inclusion in a Valedictory package of gifts and treats that was given to the students at the conclusion of their on-campus Valedictory Day celebrations.

Reunions Although the restrictions precluded events being held at the School, it provided an opportunity for an innovative approach to celebrating reunions. Whilst the 30-year reunion was held on campus in February, all reunions for the remainder of the year, for the first time in the history of the School, were held online as virtual events. One of the positives of the online format was that many Old Michaelians living interstate and around the globe were able to attend their reunions for the first time in many years. Attendance peaked with the 5-year reunion for the Class of 2015, with approximately 40 OMs and staff members joining together onscreen. The 40+ years reunion for Peer Years of 1980 and earlier, planned to be held in conjunction with the School’s 125-year Anniversary celebrations, was postponed and will be held on campus when it is safe to do so. Old Michaelians are looking forward to attending their postponed reunions on campus in 2021 and 2022.

The Sandra Matheson Archives St Michael’s welcomed all community members onto campus at the commencement of 2020 with a beautiful display of historical images and stories featured in prominent places throughout the campus in celebration or the School’s 125th Anniversary. The Archives sub-committee Dr Jan GordonClark, Sue Loughlin, Kim Crane and Carolann Thomson were delighted to see their efforts in supporting the development of the display, come to fruition.

The sub-committee commenced the year with the first workshop, which was attended by a loyal group of enthusiastic volunteers who are devoted to preserving the history of the School. Detailed tasks were undertaken, such as cataloguing, identifying photos and working through collections that have been donated by Old Michaelians and their family members. Work on campus was halted in March and for most of the year, the team continued to work remotely and assist Staff and Old Michaelians by fielding queries and preparing archival materials for display at reunions. Along with this dedicated focus, the Archives Team supported the 125th Anniversary by providing historical images for social media and engagement with the community.

The team was also delighted to see the realisation of their efforts, with the publication of the new School history book, The Art of Being Different, which was released in 2020 to coincide with the 125-year Anniversary. Each of the team members was gifted a copy of the book as an acknowledgment and thank you for a concentrated research effort which was integral to bringing the book to life.

From the Archives: The School's first Heron Island trip in 1941

The Old Michaelian Association Committee – Looking ahead In 2020 the Old Michaelian Association Committee (OMAC) have demonstrated resilience, innovation and flexibility and have continued to be integral in the strong presence of Old Michaelians at the School. Whilst the year played out in a very different way to what was first envisaged, the OMAC have played a pivotal role in the celebration of the School’s 125th Anniversary.

Dr Jan Gordon-Clark’s visit to the Year 10 Humanities class earlier in the year to speak about St Michael’s during the Second World War has sparked the initiation of a war service project that will shine a spotlight on the contribution that the School and the many members of the St Michael’s community made to the war effort. A potential new podcast project involving students and Old Michaelians is also being scoped.

We look forward to new and innovative projects springing from the challenges of 2020 and we also look forward to a time that we can continue to welcome back many more members of our Old Michaelian Community to St Michael’s in 2021 and beyond.

If you are interested in learning more about the Old Michaelian Association Committee, please contact oldmichaeliancommittee@stmichaels.vic.edu.au

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Celebrating our Volunteers Eve Ollington Since her daughters Mya (2P) and Lani (Prep Hannah) commenced at St Michael’s, Eve has volunteered to help with a variety of different creative projects for their classes.

With her son Boaz (11B) moving into his final year at St Michael’s, 2021 will be Anouk’s last year leading the Second-hand Uniform Service.

Anouk hopes to continue living by her motto of “reuse, recycle, relove” and volunteer for another sustainable directive in future.

For Anouk, “Volunteering is what ticks me along each week.”

She encourages all parents to get involved, join in the “friendly banter” and “come for as little or as long as you like”.

Eve helped with the NAIDOC Week Art Program, she assisted the children in a Mother’s Day arts and craft project, and at Lani’s request, Eve was an ongoing helper in the Kindergarten Physical Education classes.

If you are interested in volunteering with the Second-hand Uniform Service please email secondhanduniforms@stmichaels.vic.edu.au

“Volunteering is something that I’ve done for all my life. It’s about giving back and being involved.”

When Joanna graduated from St Michael’s in 2014, a letter from the Old Michaelian Association Committee inspired her to get involved.

Aside from the fulfilment she gains from volunteering, Eve also enjoys becoming closer to the St Michael’s community, being more connected to her children’s learning, and spending time with her daughters’ classmates.

“I love getting to know the kids really well”.

As Mya and Lani look ahead to their future at St Michael’s, Eve is looking forward to seeing how the girls continue “increasing their confidence and building their social networks” within the School’s welcoming community.

Anouk Hulme For almost 12 years, Anouk Hulme has been volunteering with the Parent Community Association (or the Parents and Friends Association, as it was then known).

Anouk leads St Michael’s Second-hand Uniform Service – a service that parents value for its environmental and economic benefits.

"Being environmentally friendly is in my nature, and the Second-hand Uniform Service is a good way to practice those values".

This year, the Second-hand Uniform service was reimagined to comply with COVID safe restrictions. Anouk took online bookings, which “actually turned out for the better”, as it allowed for “personalised, one-on-one customer service”.

Anouk has also been instrumental with the planning for the new Second-hand Uniforms pod, to be opened in 2021.

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Joanna Margiolis

“I thought that this would be a great way to give back to the school. Having had six incredible years at St Michael’s, I wanted to give back in some way.”

“Being part of the OMAC has given me the opportunity to engage with both current students and OMs from a range of generations. It’s wonderful to see that even though the school has changed over the years, the core values and community spirit have stayed the same.”

Joanna’s biggest highlight with the OMAC has been participating in the annual OM barbeque for Year 12 students.

“This event marks the beginning of the transition from student to Old Michaelian, and it allows students and OMs to end the year in a relaxing and fun way.”

This year, instead of the barbeque, Joanna was instrumental in organising the Old Michaelian video wishing our Year 12 students good luck in their exams. “It was a great opportunity to get input from a range of OMs spanning across numerous decades. It was inspiring to see so many OMs show their love and support for the Yr 12 students with such personal messages.”

What Joanna loves about the OM community is the shared connection, even across generations.

“We are all keepers of St Michael’s stories. This is something that links us together, no matter what year you graduated”.

If you are interested in learning more about the Old Michaelian Association Committee, please contact oldmichaeliancommittee@stmichaels.vic.edu.au

Beyond the School Gates St Michael’s students choose many different pathways when they finish school, remaining connected to one another through our vibrant Old Michaelian network.

It is with pleasure that we are able to share the stories of three Old Michaelians who have experienced unique journeys since leaving St Michael’s.

SARAH MORGAN AND GEORGIA BIRD

“We really dove in headfirst, and the momentum hasn’t stopped since then.”

Sarah Morgan (OM 2012) and Georgia Bird (OM 2014) are a DJ duo who perform together as Interstellar Fugitives.

In a male dominated industry, Sarah and Georgia rely on each other, and their families, for support.

Sarah and Georgia have made waves in the dance music industry by curating and managing events that showcase female and gender non-conforming artists, conducting DJ workshop classes for women and nonbinary people, and by avidly promoting diverse representation in the industry.

“We didn’t know any other girls running parties, and we wanted to create a space for ourselves.”

Sarah is also the co-founder of the WIP Project – a free online database of female and gender non-conforming dance music artists and industry professionals, aimed to unite agents, artists, and the wider dance community in the common goal of improving diversity and equality.

Sarah and Georgia appreciate the support of their entire community in making the dance music industry a safer space for all.

“We’re all tackling inequality together.”

JAMES BARKLAMB James Barklamb (OM 2012) says that he “was always destined to go to St Michael’s".

"Both my parents started working at the School in the early 1980s.” James’ mum Merrilyn continues to be a Prep teacher at St Michael’s. She has been a valued member of our community for 36 years.

In 2018, James Barklamb was one of only five Australians selected to join the third class of the prestigious and “completely bonkers” Schwarzman Scholars program, enabling him to study

If you would like to hear more about Sarah, Georgia, and James, you can listen to their interviews on Stories from the Crest, our podcast series launched in 2020. Stories from the Crest shares the stories of Old Michaelians from across the history of the School. It was created

by TV producer Claudia Nankervis

(OM 2012) and emerging filmmaker Fraser Pemberton (OM 2011). Fraser and Claudia explore the lives of Old Michaelians who share a common link through their school, but who have very different stories to tell.

a Masters in Global Affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing.

James has previously held positions with the Global Public Policy Institute, the Extraordinary Chambers of the Courts of Cambodia, the International Organization for Migration, and Rwanda’s Commission for the Fight Against Genocide.

In 2020, he worked with tech company Policy on a COVID-19 tracking project, focusing on governments in Southeast Asia and their response to the pandemic.

designed to benefit students, past and present, by providing opportunities to link their learning to the career skills and experience of our extensive parent and Old Michaelian network. Find out more by signing up at smgsgeneration.com.

Connect with Old Michaelians on SMGS Generation, our exciting online platform The Crest Issue 4 2020

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St Michael’s Parent Community Association – Fostering a vibrant community As Victoria entered its second lockdown, the Parent Community Association (PCA) continued to demonstrate its adaptability and strong resolve to ensure the whole St Michael’s community was nurtured and felt a sense of belonging at a time when this was more crucial than ever before.

The Second-hand Uniform Service re-launched with new COVIDsafe protocols, however it was required to close in Melbourne’s second lockdown in line with the operating guidelines for Schools. In positive news, the construction of the brand new ‘pod’ which will house the Second-hand Uniform Service is underway, thanks to the generous donation made by the PCA of over $76,000, classified as a special grant under the PCA Grant Policy. The pod is to be located on the northern side of Hewison House and is scheduled to be ready for the beginning of the school year in 2021. The brand-new building has been custom designed to accommodate stock levels and will provide a functional and comfortable environment for volunteers, as well as parent and student customers.

Whilst events such as the Mother’s and Father’s Day lunches were unable to go ahead, the PCA were able to proceed with its annual ‘Thank you to St Michael’s Staff’ morning tea. The event coincided with World Teachers’ Day on 30 October, and all of St Michael’s staff were treated to individually boxed 26

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goodies for collection at Dolly’s Café. A note from the PCA Executive expressing gratitude on behalf of the parents was placed inside each box. The staff were delighted with the thoughtful gesture.

“Thank you to the PCA for the wonderful initiative. It came at the most opportune time and the many staff I spoke to were so grateful. The set up in Dolly’s, and the box itself, were very thoughtfully constructed and presented.”

– Mr Murray Phyland, Head of Community Services The PCA Trivia Night with Brian Nankervis has long been a highlight of the PCA social calendar. This year it was reimagined as a virtual event. Over 100 families participated, and in his usual style, Brian ensured that much fun was had by all. The benefit of the online format was that the whole family could get involved - even pets got in on the action!

Congratulations to the winning team, TLC. Everyone was delighted when Brian announced on the night that although his youngest son, Henry Joe, will be graduating from St Michael’s in 2020, Brian is committed to coming back next year to do one last Trivia Night in person. The outgoing PCA President, Mark McGahan, has also committed to managing the event, as it is his last year as a parent at the School.

Every two years, elections are held for the PCA Executive.

This year, one nomination for each of the roles of President and the two Vice Presidents was received, which obviated the need for an election. The new President, Tamsin Jowett, a parent at the School since 2013, has held roles as a Year Level Representative in both the Junior and Senior Years, and has most recently held the position of PCA Leader 7-12, holding the responsibility of supporting and guiding the Years 7 to 12 Year Level Representatives. In her submission for her nomination, Tamsin expressed her belief in “our School Values and the exceptional inclusive culture St Michael's offers our unique community of students, teachers, staff, parents, leaders and our dedicated PCA volunteer team.” Tamsin also stated: “My energy and focus will be on re-engaging our community in new ways post-COVID. I am honoured the PCA leaders suggested I try for this wonderful role to continue their great work supporting our thriving community.”

Tamsin will be joined by Vice Presidents Kate Kloss and Mary Wood. Kate has taken on the role of Vice President (Parent Representatives and Communications) and brings with her several years’ experience as a Year Level Representative, and two years’ experience as the K-6 Year Level Representative Leader.

“I am passionate about supporting and working with our parent community and encouraging engagement at all levels. I look forward to being part of the new PCA team and working closely with and supporting next year’s Year Level Reps in their important roles as we develop ways to re-engage and reconnect our vibrant parent and school community (in person!)”.

– Kate Kloss, PCA Vice President (Parent Representatives and Communications).

Alongside Tamsin and Kate, Mary Wood brings her exceptional organisation and leadership skills to the role of Vice President (Events and Programs).

“I have a love of organising an event; coming up with new event ideas, planning the logistics, and collaborating with the School and organisations to encourage partnerships”.

– Mary Wood, PCA Vice President (Events and Programs).

Mary has held the roles of Year Level Representative and PCA Event Leader, and expressed that “Although this year didn’t give me the inside look into the role as I had hoped, I enjoyed meeting with key stakeholders and gained a valuable glimpse into how the parties work with each other. I look forward to working with these talented individuals.”

The PCA has continued to meet online, with the Annual General meeting being held on Zoom on Tuesday 10 November. The meeting marked the transition from the outgoing PCA Executive to the new team. Outgoing President Mark McGahan, Vice President (Parent Representatives and Communications) Meredith Miles, Vice President (Events and Programs) Maria Pannozzo and Treasurer Ruth Davis all spoke emotively of their many years at the School and thanked all the PCA members who have volunteered and supported them in their roles. They gave special thanks to the Year Level Representatives who have done an extraordinary job in keeping the community connected during 2020. The Executive remarked on the cohesiveness of the team, their respect for one another, their pride in their achievements and their gratitude to the St Michael’s community. They also expressed their confidence in the strength and commitment of the newly appointed Executive Team and encouraged everyone to continue to volunteer for the PCA. The Outgoing team thanked all School staff who had provided them with support, in particular the leadership and guidance from Head of the School Mrs Terrie Jones.

In turn, Terrie expressed her sincere thanks to the outgoing Executive Team and congratulated the newly appointed group.

Finally, Tamsin Jowett outlined her vision and focus – to reengage the St Michael’s community in new ways post-COVID and to continue to build on the great work and foundation that the previous PCA Team has established.

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“ While we have not been able to come together in celebration this year, we have joined in our collective efforts to create a wonderful legacy. On behalf of everyone at St Michael’s, thank you.”

– Ros Casey, Director of Advancement

The Giving Day banner along Chapel St

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Giving Day

A Commitment to Caring As we slowly emerge from the pandemic, we face new challenges in combatting the financial impact of the allencompassing disruption to our way of life. Many in our community have been suffering hardship, as have many more across our city and our state.

Caring and a strong sense of community have been integral to our approach to student wellbeing during the pandemic, as indeed it has throughout St Michael’s 125-year history. Caring about our students, our community and the wider world.

In keeping with our values, we decided to alleviate this hardship by offering more Scholarships to assist families with education expenses. St Michael’s has a comprehensive Scholarships program which plays a critical role in ensuring diversity in our School community. Through our Scholarships, we seek to enhance the ethos and culture of St Michael’s and to provide opportunities for those students who otherwise may not be able to start, or continue, their St Michael’s education.

To support our Scholarships program, we held our very first Giving Day on Thursday 19 November. Over 24 hours, we asked our St Michael’s community to dig deep to support our Scholarship Fund, so that we can offer more Scholarships

and sustain our program well into the future. We set out with a goal of achieving $50,000 in total donations. This amount would enable two students to attend St Michael’s for a year.

“I am proud to support as a former scholarship holder.”

– Elena Wallis As the 24 hour period came to an end, we were overwhelmed with the generosity and support from more than 100 individual donors who, like us, are committed to caring. The tally stood at an incredible $69,400. Every dollar we raised above our target will help to support more students.

Our first Giving Day was a tremendous success and we are beyond grateful to the many individuals and families who stepped up and showed their support.

Thanks to our St Michael’s family, we were able to build our Scholarship Fund to offer more Scholarships and sustain our program well into the future.

“This is a fabulous School. What a wonderful way to celebrate 2020.” – Paula Scher

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Preserving St Michael’s history When designing St Michael’s innovative learning hub, The Gipson Commons, one of the critical elements was to anchor students to the rich history of the School. Therefore, the Sandra Matheson Archives was established on the ground floor, in the heart of the building.

creating nostalgic discussion in the Old Michaelian Facebook group, and by adding a historical timeline to our website, which takes a journey through St Michael’s history from 1895 to today. View the timeline by visiting stmichaels.vic.edu.au/125th-anniversary.

The Archives are dedicated to the memory of Ms Sandra Matheson, who gave four decades of loyal service to St Michael’s Grammar School. The room commemorates Sandra’s passion for preserving our School’s rich history.

If you would like to view the Archives or take part in the next Archives Workshop, please contact the Archives SubCommittee of the Old Michaelian Association Committee (OMAC), at archives@stmichaels.vic.edu.au

Managed by our alumni, the Sandra Matheson Archives is the repository of the School’s 125-year history. It ensures that students have a visible connection with the School’s past, its significant moments, and the story which they too will contribute to, as the ever-evolving narrative of St Michael’s unfolds.

1.

A student supporting Mitre House in the 1980s

2.

The Sisters of the Church with Archbishop Sir Frank Woods in the 1960s

The Archives capture the lives and stories of Old Michaelians and preserve them long after memory has faded. They tell stories, help us to better understand our past, and allow us to gain a sense of identity and inspiration.

3.

The School's Asian studies group in 1971

4.

Our 1990 Boys and 2018 Girls first ever premiership Football teams

5.

The 2001, St Michael’s became the first school to stage a production in Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre – Les Miserables

In 2020, we have been sharing some gems hidden in the Archives on the School’s social media channels,

6.

The School's first library

7.

The first co-educational group to graduate from St Michael's was the Class of 1981

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The Crest Issue 4 2020

The Art of Being Different In 1895, armed with their faith and their wits, the enterprising Sisters of the Community of the Church opened a tiny Anglican school at Marlton Crescent, St Kilda. One hundred and twenty-five years later, St Michael's is one of Australia's top educational institutions, both utterly modern and deeply connected to its history and traditions. The School's values, passed down from the founding Sisters, have linked generations of staff and students in a long line of academic excellence and community service.

The Art of Being Different is the new book by Professor Stuart Kells, which tells the lively story of St Michael's, celebrating the people and moments that have transformed it from its modest, devout origins through to the innovative K-12 institution it is today. Lavishly illustrated with more than 250 photographs and artefacts from the School's Sandra Matheson Archives, The Art of Being Different pays tribute to our School, on its significant 125th Anniversary.

Purchase your copy of The Art of Being Different now at www.blackincbooks.com. au/st-michaels-art-of-being-different and take home a piece of St Michael’s history.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Professor Stuart Kells' books have been published around the world.

He has twice won the Ashurst Business Literature Prize, and has been shortlisted for the Prime Minister's Literary Award, the NSW Premier's General History Prize and the University of Queensland Non-Fiction Book Award. His writing has appeared in many publications, including The Paris Review and Smithsonian.

The Crest Issue 4 2020

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The Crest Issue 4 2020

Nurturing Creative, Inquiring Minds Join us at our next Open Morning to see the School in action, talk to staff about our philosophy, programs, and curriculum, take a tour of the facilities, and meet with teachers and staff in a Q&A session to have your questions answered.

Register for the next Open Morning at www.stmichaels.vic.du.au/enrolments/open-morning-registration

CONTACT OUR STUDENT ENROLMENTS TEAM Phone +61 3 8530 3310 Email enrolments@stmichaels.vic.edu.au www.stmichaels.vic.edu.au/enrolments

St Michael’s Grammar School 25 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182 Australia Telephone: +61 3 8530 3200 Facsimile: +61 3 9510 9392 community@stmichaels.vic.edu.au stmichaels.vic.edu.au CRICOS Provider 00345G

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