This week, Reverend Creed shares an Easter reflection as we head into the Term 1 school holidays.
As Term One comes to a close, we reflect on and celebrate the dedication and achievements of our vibrant community. The energy and commitment of our students and staff has been truly inspiring, and we are incredibly grateful for the enthusiasm and unforgettable moments that have shaped this term.
From fabulous co-curricular programs including House Dance, GSV Sport and lunchtime clubs to the introduction of Masterclasses in the Upskill curriculum, this term has been rich with experiences that have encouraged students to challenge themselves, discover new passions, and deepen their sense of connection. This wide array of academic and co-curricular activities has also further enriched their learning experience, fostering growth, resilience, and curiosity. It has been a privilege to watch our students embrace these opportunities with eagerness and develop as engaged, confident learners.
With the holidays approaching, we encourage students and their families to take this time to unwind, recharge, and enjoy special moments with friends and family. We hope the break brings relaxation and joy to all in our school community. We look forward to a new term filled with fresh opportunities and achievements, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to Camberwell Girls for the start of Term Two on Tuesday, 22 April.
Happy holidays!
Kath Woolcock
Head of Senior School
Tom Clark
Head of Middle School
Last week, our school embraced the vibrancy of Language and Culture Week, an annual celebration of the many cultures within our community.
The festivities began with International Free Dress Day on Monday, where students and staff showcased their cultural heritage or added a touch of a culture that inspires them. At recess, German Brezeln were a hit, followed by a lively lunchtime performance from international musician Meghna who sang some German favourites.
Tuesday brought a feast of flavours with the Dumpling Truck drawing eager crowds at recess and lunch.
On Wednesday, the energy soared during lunchtime as students gathered for K-Pop Just Dance, busting out all the moves to their favourite Korean pop hits.
Thursday’s Languages Assembly was a highlight, featuring a Year 7 Chinese song, a hilarious Petit Nicolas play performed by Year 11 French students, and a dynamic Year 10 German Quiz Show, joined by our two German exchange students.
The week concluded on a high note with Friday’s International Concert showcasing a diverse range of musical and dance performances.
Language and Culture Week was a fantastic opportunity for students to come together in celebration of our global community. A huge thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the week such a success.
Dr Jo Rittey
Head of Languages
Recently in assembly we were delighted to acknowledge Annie G and Rithanyaa P (Year 10) as successful applicants of the prestigious Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program. With over 2000 applications received, this is a significant achievement, and we congratulate Annie and Rithanyaa on their future involvement in this prestigious program.
The Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program is an academic enrichment program designed to support high-achieving secondary school students in achieving their personal best. Each year, students in Year 10 are invited to apply and the application process is rigorous.
The program is offered by Melbourne University and provides successful students with a unique head start into university life. It provides an exclusive opportunity to engage with Melbourne University over two years, and successful applicants become part of a supportive university community and peer network through a tailored program.
The program begins in Year 10, and continues through Years 11 and 12, with participants being invited to several events and activities each year. Students who receive this award are given the opportunity to attend personal development workshops, overnight adventures on campus and Unit 3 and 4 VCE revision lectures. Award recipients can also access the largest library collection in the southern hemisphere and future study assistance and advice. Students receiving this award, who successfully gain a place at Melbourne University for their tertiary studies, continue to receive benefits including possible study overseas scholarships and other support systems.
The Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program is a highly respected program for high achieving secondary school students. Students must be committed to their academic studies and demonstrate strong leadership capabilities, active citizenship and community service.
Congratulations again to Annie and Rithanyaa and we look forward to hearing about their experiences in the program over the next few years.
Kath Woolcock
Head of Senior School
We would like to congratulate Amanda L from Year 12 for being chosen as the recipient of the Deakin Young Influencer Award. While the Award was announced in 2024, Luke Ridgewell from Deakin University attended the Secondary School assembly on 13 March to acknowledge Amanda’s achievements and present her with the award certificate.
The Deakin Young Influencer Award is a scholarship program for high-achieving and motivated Year 11 students. The award recognises excellence and celebrates students who have made a positive contribution to their school and local community. Deakin believes strongly in acknowledging outstanding students and has rewarded Amanda’s efforts and achievements with a $5000 scholarship to support her first year of study at Deakin in 2026.
Amanda has been awarded the Deakin Young Influencer Award for her outstanding contributions to her community, particularly through her dedication to coaching and working at her local tennis club. Further to this, Amanda’s extensive leadership at Camberwell Girls, alongside her ability to build positive and collaborative relationships, reflects Deakin’s values making her a worthy recipient of this award.
Congratulations again Amanda, we look forward to hearing about her experiences and what the future holds.
Ashley Nguyen
Head of Careers Education
Mathematical Methods Masterclass
The recent VCE Maths Ignite Masterclasses, provided an exciting opportunity to enhance learning through the use of technology, with a focus on deepening the use of the CAS calculator across each of the different maths subjects.
In Mathematical Methods and Specialist Mathematics, the emphasis was on advanced graphing techniques, using the CAS to visualise complex functions and better understand the interactions between two functions when graphing their product. This hands-on approach brought abstract ideas to life in an interactive and accessible way, as well as techniques for using technology to approach vector problems. In General Mathematics, the focus shifted to data analysis, where students used the CAS to analyse and manipulate data sets, draw comparisons and make informed conclusions, whilst meeting a set of pre-defined criteria. This practical application of statistics helped sharpen problem-solving skills and provided valuable tools for real-world decision-making.
This Ignite Masterclasses enabled us to showcase how technology can transform VCE Maths and provide students with tools to harness technology to approach more complex problems.
Caiti Wade
Head of Maths
Psychology Masterclass
Tune into your stress and take control!
In our most recent Ignite Masterclass, VCE Psychology students explored the physiological effects of stress and relaxation using Biodots—small, temperature-sensitive plastic dots that stick to the skin between the thumb and forefinger. These dots act as biofeedback tools, detecting subtle changes in body temperature as an indicator of nervous system activity and stress levels.
Students measured their baseline body temperature and heart rate, then observed how these physiological markers fluctuated under different conditions, including physical and cognitive stress, relaxation techniques, and music therapy. By comparing their responses, they gained valuable insights into how the nervous system regulates stress and relaxation.
Beyond understanding physiological responses, students engaged in critical thinking by applying Key Science Skills—evaluating research methodology, analysing data, assessing validity, and considering ethical implications. This interactive experience not only reinforced essential VCE Psychology concepts but also highlighted real-world applications of psychological research, deepening students’ appreciation for the science behind stress management and biofeedback techniques.
Karin Lemanis
Psychology Teacher
Chemistry Masterclass
In our recent Upskill Ignite Masterclass, we had the opportunity to focus on the requirements for the Scientific Investigation with the Year 11 and 12 Chemistry students. This Area of Study involves the generation of primary data related to concepts covered during the Unit 1 and 2 course in Year 11 and the Unit 3 and 4 course in Year 12 which are then linked to a contemporary chemical challenge or issue. We focused on the key science skills of developing a research question, stating an aim and formulating a hypothesis. Students were given examples of scientific posters and logbooks to annotate and critique. Students then had the opportunity to use stimulus material to develop their own research question.
The Masterclass provided all our Chemistry students not only with the concepts and skills required for their scientific investigations across Unit 1 – 4 but also gave them the opportunity to share ideas with their peers across year levels and have in-depth discussions about the examples provided with each other.
Tracey Fletcher
Science Teacher
The inaugural Year 8 Upskill speed puzzling tournament took place on March 25, an event filled with excitement and high energy. Teams of four were challenged to complete a 500-piece puzzle in under an hour, testing their collaboration, problem-solving, organization, and leadership skills. The atmosphere was electric as students worked together, strategizing and communicating to piece together the puzzle.
Designed to push the students to think critically and work efficiently under pressure, each team had to delegate tasks, manage their time effectively, and maintain a high level of focus throughout the competition. The event not only tested their cognitive abilities but also their ability to work as a cohesive unit.
Huddling over their puzzles, students exchanged ideas and made quick decisions, all the while being assessed by CGGS who were looking for exceptional examples of strategy, teamwork and communication to award bonus points. Although there were several puzzlers who came close to completing their puzzle, at the end of the competition, only one team emerged victorious, with an impressive time of 58 minutes and 58 seconds.
Team ‘Imagine Winning’ made up of Kasey, Elisha, Olivia, Rachel and Betty were exemplary in their teamwork, strategy and communication and impressively and we congratulate them on setting the Year 8 time to beat for future years.
Maria Litchfield
Year 8 Coordinator
The GSV Finals Evening was held on Tuesday 1 April at MSAC. Off the back of winning the GSV Division Two Swimming Championship in March, the CGGS divers and swimmers completed a successful campaign, with twenty-seven students qualifying for this high-level event.
Congratulations to all students and to the following swimmers:
In speaking with Anneka in the build-up to the Finals Evening, an event in which she has qualified for the past five years, she was excited to be competing for the first time in the 50 Metre Breaststroke as well as her specialist event, the 50 Metre Backstroke, where she has medalled in the previous two campaigns.
Anneka credits her participation in swimming as a great educator when it comes to developing discipline and commitment to a cause. Anneka, without fail, attends early morning training sessions, where she is primed to honour the workload required, knowing that it will assist her to compete to a quality standard. Anneka delights in the fact that her most valuable friendships have arisen from her participation in the CGGS Swimming Program.
Congratulations to Anika S (Year 11) on gaining selection to the Victorian Hockey Team to contest the 2025 Hockey Australia U16 Championships.
This national contest will be conducted in Adelaide from 31 March – 7 April. This year marks the sixth occasion in which Anika has been selected to a Victorian team, a remarkable achievement!
Having played the sport since 5 years of age, Anika utilises her stick-handling skills and speed to great effect in the midfield. Described by teammates as a consummate team player that brings great levels of energy to every contest, the CGGS Senior team will benefit enormously from Anika’s play in the Term Two GSV weekly competition.
Year 9 students commenced the week participating in their annual House Cross Carnival event. In a great celebration of House Spirit and competitive running, congratulations to the following students who saluted the judges on their way to podium finishes:
The Senior School House Cross Country Carnival for Years 7, 8, 10, 11, 12 will be conducted at Deepdene Park on Tuesday 13 May.
As we head into the Term One school holiday break, Camberwell teams have commenced the BNA Winter Competition in winning style, playing part in thrilling matches that have delighted supporters.
Student attendance has been exceptional and with the grading process concluded, CGGS netballers look forward to the resumption of Round 3 action on Saturday 3 May.
Former student Kiki Page has coached Year 7 and 8 students this term in the GSV weekly Tennis competition.
Kiki was a player of great quality whilst a student at CGGS, having been awarded the Most Valuable Player title in the Intermediate and Senior A teams.
Recently, Kiki was a chair umpire at an ITF Pro Tour event and has worked for Tennis Australia for the past five years. This role sees her provide on-court services for the world’s elite players, including Madison Keys, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz at the 2025 Australian Open.
Cameron Childs
Director of Sport
During Term 3 2024, sixteen selected Year 11 students from CGGS took part in the first stage of the Australian Science Olympiads in Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Environmental Science and did remarkably well.
The students were identified based on their outstanding academic results in Semester One and invited to represent CGGS by participating in a specific Science Olympiad. They joined around 1000 other students in Australia who completed in the Science Olympiads. The first stage examination, in which the CGGS students competed, was two hours long, completed wholly online, involved university level content and required quite demanding content to be interpreted and applied.
In particular, CGGS would like to acknowledge Sunny S who achieved a High Distinction in the Biology Olympiad and Dina Mg who achieved a Distinction in the Earth and Environmental Olympiad.
The students who represented CGGS and participated in the Science Olympiads in 2024 were:
We look forward to identifying and inviting our next Year 11 Science Olympiad participants for 2025 later in Term 2.
Deb Henson
Head of Science
Tuesday 1 April saw the exciting annual showcase of the joy of dance at CGGS.
The House Dance Captains plan and choreograph three separate dances. Two of them have the main purpose of inclusivity and House Spirit. Any student is welcome to join regardless of experience. The third dance is for a smaller and more skilled group of dancers and the Captains must respond to a stimulus to justify their choice of choreographic material.
They were ably supported by the Technical Captains who learnt how to design and operate a tailor-made accompanying lighting design for each dance.
There was an electric atmosphere as the whole school gathered in excited anticipation for the event to start. We were thoroughly treated to a host of skilfully crafted and executed dances, enthusiastically and very loudly cheered on by their Houses.
The huge numbers of students involved and the obvious joy and satisfaction it brought them is testament to the motivation and leadership of our Dance and Technical Captains.
Huge congratulations to all involved in this exciting event!
Claire Colthup
Drama Teacher
LIVE FM is a community radio station which also offers workshops to schools to support the development of communication skills needed to host a radio program. 17 students across Years 7 – 11 participated in a workshop where they honed their question generation, active listening, and oral fluency skills. These were then applied through a series of interviews with the following inspirational people. We are grateful to them for giving their time and generously sharing their stories.
Shima Ibuki is the Maling Ward representative on the Boroondara Council, and she provided insights into her journey into local government, and what motivates her to work for her community. Penny Lovell shared her experiences as a lawyer and small business owner as she navigated different career pathways. Philip Stork narrated his colourful history setting up a business in the shipping industry and expanding beyond Australia. Amit Sethi provided insights into his experiences as he moved to Melbourne as a young student and the values that have underpinned the creation and development of his own business. Kaitlin Barr, our Year 7 Coordinator, inspired our students with stories of her experiences as an AFLW umpire, while sharing the challenges and joy associated with juggling teaching with umpiring. Jacqueline de Mamiel, one of our recent alum, enthralled our students with her experiences at Camberwell Girls, involvement as an ambassador for Little Dreamers and life as a University of Melbourne student.
We now have a team of students who have completed their training with LIVE FM and are looking forward to continuing to collect the stories of our community.
Dr Charlotte Forwood
Director of Learning Design and Development
On a beautiful Thursday last week, over 100 Year 7 students embarked on their Geography field trip to the Glen Iris Wetlands. This trip offered a fantastic opportunity for students to build on their classroom studies on both the natural and urban water cycles with real-world observations. They collected lots of fieldwork data where they tested water quality, drew detailed field sketches, and participated in water bug activities to better understand the functions of wetlands in the urban water cycle. The hands-on experience not only enriched their knowledge but also fostered a sense of camaraderie as they enjoyed the day together.
Kathryn Kollmorgen
Geography Teacher
Last week, our Year 10 Geography students took the role of global leaders, tackling the pressing issue of the impact of climate change and sea level rise on Pacific Island nations in their mock UN Conferences.
As delegates representing different countries, students navigated the complexities of international diplomacy, forging alliances and negotiating outcomes that balanced both national interests and global responsibility. Discussions were robust and enthusiastic as they debated amendments to their draft resolution. Students exercised skills including collaboration, empathy, and strategic decision-making, gaining a deeper appreciation for the complexities of global issues and challenges.
By the end of the conference, students recognised the importance of understanding the geography of places and how this influences vulnerability to natural processes, as well as the role of the UN in addressing global issues. As their final task for this unit, it was great to see students apply their knowledge and skills with enthusiasm and engagement, and to see their learning and effort come together for their conference.
Next, the Year 10s will begin their unit on Environmental Change and Management, where they will complete fieldwork at the You Yangs in Term Two. We look forward to hearing their reflections.
Ben McManamny
Geography Teacher
Several activities and excursions have been undertaken in the field of Sustainability during this term.
The Year 8 and 9 elective Organic Gardening: Grow @ Home visited The Plummery, a suburban property food garden in Northcote, to inspire the design of their own edible garden.
Froggies focussed on Gardening and worked in the Woodstock Courtyard harvesting summer produce, sowing seed, potting seedlings with ELC students, and cleaning up veggie beds. On Thursday 3 April, Froggies students partnered with Camberwell Grammar School (Boys) Environment Club students to improve and conserve the Boroondara environment surrounding their schools on the Anniversary Trail.
Year 7 Environmental Stewards learned about different types of waste, participated in the Precious Plastics Program by creating bag tags using recycled milk bottle lids, and harvested seasonal produce to prepare and taste Pumpkin Dip in a kitchen garden session.
Six Year 9 students visited Melbourne Girls College to take part in their Pedal Power Competition. Our students competed against teams from other schools to generate as much power as possible by pedalling on bikes that were specially designed to capture the energy produced. In 30 minutes, 3 CGGS students were able to produce about 30 energy watt hours which was stored in batteries to power a popcorn machine for a school event.
Anna Clarkson
Sustainability Coordinator
At Chaplain’s Assembly on 25 March, Senior School students were given the opportunity to listen to an inspiring speaker.
Emma Gee is an acclaimed International Lived Experience Consultant, Occupational Therapist and Author. With a background in Occupational Therapy and as a Stroke Survivor, Emma is a renowned expert and a living example of what it takes to step into another’s shoes and truly bounce back in life.
One of the Year 10 students reflected on the presentation: “Overall, it was inspiring to hear Emma’s message about not getting bogged down with hardships, but rather focussing on how to overcome them. Emma also related it back to us, and how we could take a message from her story. We really liked the photos and videos as they helped us to step into Emma’s shoes.”
Helen Creed
School Chaplain
Some of our Secondary School students rose very early on Friday 21 March to attend a Prayer Breakfast at Camberwell Grammar School (Boys), bringing Student Mustard Groups together from all over Melbourne.
Mustard is an organisation that supports students to run a club focused on Christian belonging. At CGGS we have approximately 30 students, led by Elise O and Claire P-N, who meet weekly to encourage each other and to explore Christian stories.
At the Breakfast we heard from students about how important Mustard is to them. In addition, students and chaplains prayed for their schools and mustard groups. It was a time of great fellowship, and we thank Lara Ruddle, and her team from Mustard, for all their efforts. A great time was had by all.
Helen Creed
School Chaplain
Faith and Service Captain, Dina, Mr Clark, Mr Cimenoglu and I were delighted to attend an Iftar Dinner hosted by Australian International Academy (AIA). We joined with staff and students from AIA, and a number of other schools, to break the fast together, and then enjoy a delicious meal. We were also honoured to hear a number of speakers reflect on the theme “compassion for all”. The School Captain said: “Every night, thousands in Melbourne go to sleep without a warm meal or a safe place to rest. Through this gathering, we hope to come together as young leaders to make a difference – raising funds to help provide meals and support to those in need.”
Reverend Helen Creed
School Chaplain
This week, Reverend Creed shares an Easter reflection as we head into the Term 1 school holidays.
Term 1 ended vibrantly with the House Dance Competition last night and numerous exciting learning opportunities.
Junior School students are excitedly heading into the Term 1 break after a busy final fortnight of the term.
The PFA was delighted by the support shown at their most significant event of the year—the Moonlight Movie Night.
