Today, School Counsellor Paula Kolivas explores how we can help support student wellbeing in a digital world.
The Junior School was buzzing with excitement as we welcomed future members of the CGGS community for our 2027 Ready, Set, Connect Day. Designed to help students and families begin building connections ahead of joining the School, the day was filled with friendship, laughter, leadership and plenty of fun.
Our Year 5 2027 cohort enjoyed an action-packed day of activities designed to help them get to know one another and feel part of the CGGS community from the moment they arrived. The energy and enthusiasm throughout the day was infectious, with students quickly forming new friendships and embracing every opportunity to connect.
For me, one of the most memorable aspects of the day was the role played by our current Year 4 students, who were exceptional ambassadors for our School. Demonstrating our values of Respect, Hope, Courage, Commitment and Integrity, they welcomed new students with genuine warmth and kindness. The handmade welcome cards, carefully created by our students, offered a heartfelt way to help new students feel welcomed, valued and included.
Of course, a day about belonging and connection would not be complete without lots of fun. The ever-popular Minute to Win It challenges brought lots of laughter, teamwork and excitement as students worked together to complete a series of entertaining tasks. The activities encouraged collaboration, resilience and problem-solving, while creating plenty of memorable moments and smiles.
A special highlight of the day was a Leadership Panel for our Year 6 2027 cohort, featuring Ms Eleanor Wood from our Secondary School, alongside three outstanding Senior School students Sophie W (Year 10), Lillian W (Year 10) and Claire N (Year 9). The panel provided our future Year 6 students with valuable insights into life at CGGS, sharing experiences of learning, leadership, wellbeing and belonging. Our emerging Year 6 leaders asked thoughtful questions and gained a glimpse of the many opportunities that await them as they embark on the final year of Junior School and prepare for the transition to Secondary School.
The success of Ready, Set, Connect Day was evident in the confidence and connections that developed throughout the day. It was wonderful to see students supporting one another, stepping outside their comfort zones and embracing the welcoming spirit that makes CGGS such a special community.
We look forward to welcoming these students back school for the next transition event and are excited to watch the friendships and connections formed on the day continue to grow as they begin their CGGS journey.
We are incredibly proud to celebrate Scarlett’s outstanding musical achievement. On Saturday 1 August, Scarlett was awarded First Prize in the Piano Category at the 2026 Sound of Music Australia International Music Competition, held in Melbourne. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to Scarlett’s dedication, talent, perseverance, and passion for music. To be recognised at an international-level competition is an extraordinary achievement, and we congratulate Scarlett on this well-deserved success. We are delighted to celebrate her accomplishment and look forward to seeing her continue to flourish in her musical journey. Well done, Scarlett!
Kellie Morgan
Head of Junior School
When children believe in themselves, they become confident learners who are willing to take risks, persist through challenges and celebrate their growth.
Throughout the year in Early Learning 4 Full Time, children have been supported to develop a growth mindset by embracing challenges, exploring unfamiliar experiences, and persevering when learning feels difficult. Through intentional conversations and meaningful learning opportunities, children have developed an understanding that learning is a process that requires effort, practice, and persistence. We have emphasised that mistakes are a valuable part of learning, providing opportunities for reflection, problem-solving and growth. As children’s confidence has strengthened, they have been encouraged to develop self-belief by recognising their strengths, trusting their abilities, and approaching new experiences with a positive and resilient mindset.
Children were provided with time and opportunity to reflect on how they are growing as capable and confident learners. Through stories, discussions, drawing, and the sharing of personal experiences, they explored the concept of self-belief and considered how trust in themselves supports risk-taking, persistence and learning through challenges. They identified skills they have acquired, goals they are working towards, and approaches they use when faced with challenges. These reflections deepened their understanding that progress is achieved through commitment, resilience, and continued effort.
Children are increasingly demonstrating confidence in their ability to engage with new experiences, recognise their accomplishments, and confidently say, ‘I can do it.’ As researchers, the children will continue to investigate their strengths, capabilities, and personal qualities through discussion, reflection, and documentation, supporting the ongoing development of resilient, capable, and motivated learners.
Angela Follacchio
Early Learning 4 Teacher
This year, the Junior School held its first Foundation – Year 2 House Cross Country. The idea for this event came from our wonderful Sport Leaders, Nicole L and Emma B. Nicole and Emma planned and coordinated the event, and were also a huge help on the day, assisting with the race and managing the finish line and ribbons.
The day was a great success, with students rotating between three activities: Bob Tiggy, Octopus and their Cross-Country Race. The first group to race were our Foundation students. The Foundation students faced a challenging 800m race around the oval and courts at Secondary School. They did an amazing job in their first-ever race, and everyone should be incredibly proud of their achievements. Students have been practising pacing themselves and jogging without stopping and it was wonderful to see them all finish the race with smiles on their faces. Congratulations to Eloisa B (First), Samantha S (Second) and Madeline C (Third).
The next group to run were our Year 1 students. Year 1 had a slightly longer race, having to complete three laps around the course, for a total of 1.2km. Everyone did a great job, encouraging each other and trying their best. Congratulations to Harper D, Angel C, and Estelle W, who came first, second and third.
Our two Year 2 classes ran separate races and had the big challenge of completing four laps around the course! What an amazing effort to run 1.6km in their very first Cross Country! Well done to all of Year 2, who will graduate to our Year 3 – 6 House Cross Country next year and tackle a 2km race.
Overall, the day was a huge success. A big thank you to our Sport Leaders, House Leaders and Foundation and Year 1 classroom leaders for their help on the day. It was also wonderful to see so many parents in attendance to cheer on the students and add to the House Spirit. The Spirit Award for team spirit, was LAWRENCE and our winning House on the day was SINGLETON!
Kim James
PE Teacher
On Friday 24 July 2026, students from Years 4 – 6 participated in a Schools Tree Day planting event at Belmont Park. Students walked to the park with Mr Goodwin and several students and teachers from Secondary School, where they joined together to help improve the local environment through tree planting and habitat restoration activities.
The students worked enthusiastically alongside teachers and volunteers to plant a variety of native trees and shrubs. Before planting, they learned about the importance of indigenous vegetation, biodiversity, and the role trees play in supporting local wildlife. Students carefully prepared the soil and planted seedlings to help ensure their healthy growth.
The day provided a valuable hands-on learning experience that connected our school meetings with real-world environmental action. Students developed a deeper understanding of sustainability and the positive impact individuals can have on their local community. They also demonstrated teamwork, responsibility, and perseverance as they worked together.
The planting project will contribute to the ongoing enhancement of Belmont Park by increasing green space and creating habitat for native birds, insects, and other wildlife. The event was a rewarding experience for all involved and highlighted the school’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. Students returned proud of their contribution to a greener and more sustainable future.
Craig Goodwin
Year 5 Classroom Teacher
On Tuesday 28 July, an excited group of Year 2 students went to the historic Como House. We were split into four groups. First, my group did old fashioned games. My favourite games were skipping and hot potato. Some other games were croquet, what’s the time Mr Wolf, egg and spoon race and the potato sack race.
Secondly, we had our mansion tour. Ellen (who was one of the staff) showed us around the house. She showed us a dance in the ballroom with a chandelier made out of 1060 crystals! There were also a few bedrooms, a morning room, the servant’s quarter and a kitchen.
Next, we were like detectives to find out who broke the porcelain doll. There were clues around the garden to find out who broke the doll. It was a good chance to explore the garden.
Finally, we did servant training where we learnt how to wash clothes. What a terrific experience we all had at Como House!
By Sophie Wu
Year 2 Student
Selena Reedman and Anjali de Quadros
Year 2 Classroom Teachers
In Week 5, Year 4 went on an excursion to the Melbourne Zoo and had a lot of fun exploring the exhibits and making connections to their Inquiry unit on natural systems such as food chains and food webs.
We first went on the bus and when they arrived, we were filled with excitement, curiosity and joy. Firstly, we went to the Lion Gorge. Seeing dingos, a real lion roar, snow leopards, a tiger and much more. The highlight of the Lion Gorge was the lion roar. The roar was filled with ferociousness and a majestic sound. (Eugenie)
While we were at the Lion Gorge, we first saw the dingoes which looked like a mixture of a fox and a dog, then we saw the lion relaxing on a platform, the lion had a light coffee coloured coat, and just in time we saw it ROAR! (Emilia)
We were lucky enough to not only see two lions roaring, but also an active tiger who roared like a grandma! The snow leopards enjoyed going on the rocks on the side of the enclosure. After seeing dingoes and lions, we walked to the Cat Alley. We stumbled upon the Tasmanian devil enclosure, but they were still sleeping in the back. (Olivia)
When we left the Lion Gorge, we arrived at the forest of wonder and what a beautiful sight it was! It was almost as if it was a real forest with the beautiful bamboo trees everywhere. We visited the tiger exhibit and what a majestic creature it was with the way it elegantly walked, what was not to love? (Madison)
The Year 4’s curiously went in the butterfly house which was warm so the butterflies would not get cold. If you held still one of the butterflies might land on you! An orange butterfly landed on me which I did not feel anything. All of the butterflies were incredibly beautiful, and it was so cool to see so many butterflies at one time. (Summer)
In the Butterfly House, we were told that if you hold very still the butterflies might land on you! We all tried our hardest to stand still and for some of us…. It worked! I got one on my arm it was a pretty orange one and one landed on my hand for a few seconds. Overall, I found the zoo fun and fascinating, and I hope I can have this experience again. (Eva)
May Ou
Year 4 Classroom Teacher
The excitement was high as students gathered for the much-anticipated FUSE Cup Mario Kart Competition at Genazzano, a fun-filled event that combined friendly rivalry, teamwork, and plenty of racing action.
Throughout the competition, participants demonstrated impressive gaming skills, quick reflexes, and excellent sportsmanship as they navigated challenging tracks, avoided obstacles, and battled for valuable points. The atmosphere was electric, with students cheering on their peers and celebrating both individual achievements and team successes.
One of the highlights of the event was the way students encouraged and supported one another. Whether competing for a place on the leaderboard or simply enjoying the experience, everyone embraced the spirit of the competition. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for students to build connections, develop resilience, and practise positive communication in a fun and engaging environment.
As the races progressed, the leaderboard remained close, keeping competitors and spectators on the edge of their seats. Congratulations to Charlotte G, Charlotte S, Joann, Sarah, Aryana, Ajab, Sarika and Ayati all students who participated
The FUSE Cup Mario Kart Competition was a fantastic celebration of student engagement, collaboration, and healthy competition. We look forward to seeing even more racers take to the starting grid at future FUSE Cup events.
Charlotte G : It was really loud and fun. A highlight was getting to meet new people from other schools
Joann: The day went by very fast because we all enjoyed the experience. I learnt some new techniques, and I realised that practising the maps was essential to help you to win.
Sarika: It was so fun! Now I know what the competition is like, I look forward to trying out again next year.
Nancy Robottom
Deputy Head of Junior School
This term, Year 6 has been learning about the impact of immigration on Australian society. They have analysed and applied visual literacy understandings to Shaun Tan’s book ‘The Arrival’. This text outlines the complexity of the immigration journey faced by many around the world. This Monday, Year 6 visited the Immigration Museum to learn about the many stories of Australian migrants.
On Monday, year six went on an excursion to the Immigration Museum. I learned about push and pull factors that caused many people to come to Australia. Some left their home country because of famine, war, or natural disasters, seeking safety here. We also read about immigrants’ histories and looked at cultural items they kept that were important to them. I learned about so many fascinating things. (Estelle)
Everyone was interested to know more about the historical facts of different migrants and their unique backgrounds. We admired how refugees overcame challenges and really enjoyed reading their individual stories about what they had been through. My favourite part was seeing the immigration interview that migrants had to experience. (Doris)
I really enjoyed the excursion to the immigration museum as I learnt lots of diverse stories from a variety of people. These stories helped me realise how difficult the process of immigration is. My favourite part was exploring the stories and understanding what migrants went through. (Ajab)
I enjoyed learning about Setsataro Hasegawa, a Japanese man who travelled from Japan to Geelong to improve his English. I also learnt about the historical timeline of migration, and the push and pull factors that drove waves of people to leave their home countries. (Amy)
Jasvindar Gill and Margaret Hall
Year 6 Classroom Teachers
Each year when Parliament is in recess, the students of Victoria come together in a Parliamentary simulation to engage in the political process of discussion, debate and amendment recommendations. A group of Camberwell Girls year 6 students worked through the preparation process of examining the key issues to do with student employment at large state events, especially sport and presented their ideas at the Primary Schools official title…. This single day is held in State Parliament and includes an opening address from each school, chamber debate and small group discussion, a soapbox collective and final recommendations for parliamentary consideration.
Student reflections –
State Parliament Primary Schools experience was interesting as I learned so much about how the Victorian Parliament runs. I enjoyed learning from the keynote speakers and their experiences with sporting events. The soapbox session, where I heard many different ideas and opinions, and the discussion groups, where I met new people from other schools and worked to combine our ideas, were both very interesting. (Sophie T Year 6)
Speaking at Parliament about children earning money while volunteering at sporting events such as the Australian Open was a fun and valuable experience. I learned about presenting ideas and working with others, and I especially enjoyed collaborating with students from other schools. It helped me feel more confident sharing my opinions in a formal setting. (Ayati P Year 6)
Michele Linossier
LEEP Head of Department
Today, School Counsellor Paula Kolivas explores how we can help support student wellbeing in a digital world.
Our Secondary School Athletics Team represented the School with pride and enthusiasm at the recent GSV Preliminary Carnival.
Our Year 2 students stepped back in time when they visited Como House this past fortnight.
The PFA hosted their first pre-show event in the reimagined Barbara Sutton Hall and alum of Western Australia came together for a special reunion.
