Principal

As Term 4 begins, we enter a very special time in the school year. It is a season of celebration and transition, as we acknowledge significant milestones across our community and, in particular, prepare to farewell our Year 12 students as they complete their secondary education.

For the Class of 2026, these final weeks at Camberwell Girls Grammar School bring together so many memories, emotions and reflections. There will be moments of joy, gratitude, anticipation and perhaps even a little sadness, as they participate in the final events that mark the conclusion of their school journey. From Presentation Evening to the Leavers’ Service, Valedictory Dinner and their final Assembly, we look forward to celebrating all that they have achieved and the many ways they have contributed to the life of our School.

At our Year 12 Commencement Service earlier this year, Reverend Creed reflected on the meaning of community: a place where people are welcomed, accepted and know that they belong. The students heard from others in their year level about the year ahead; that Year 12 is not only about ATARs or simply ‘getting through’, but about consistent work and making the most of every opportunity, developing individual strengths and capabilities, and recognising the importance of friendship, service, kindness and self-care.

As I think about this year level now, those same ideas feel particularly fitting. Our Year 12 students have helped shape a community in which others are seen, encouraged and valued. They have contributed through leadership, learning, creativity, service, sport, music, drama, faith and friendship. They have brought their unique gifts to our School, and in doing so have strengthened us as a whole.

Year 12 is often spoken about as an ending, but it is also very much a beginning. The memories formed at Camberwell Girls will remain with our students well beyond their final examinations and final days in school uniform. It is our hope that they leave us with confidence in who they are, curiosity about the world around them, compassion for others and a deep understanding that education is not only preparation for their professional lives, but preparation for a life of purpose, contribution and meaning.

I extend my sincere thanks to all staff who have taught, guided, encouraged and cared for our Year 12 students, not only this year, but throughout their time at Camberwell Girls. The journey of each student is shaped by many people, and I know our families join me in expressing deep appreciation for the commitment and support of our subject teachers, Form Teachers, Year Level Coordinators, Heads of School, support staff and all who have walked alongside them. Whilst our students’ education and growth is shaped over many years and with many teachers, I would like to acknowledge those who have closely supported them this year; their subject teachers, Counsellors and in particular Form teachers (Mrs Anderson, Ms Georgiou, Mrs Hepworth and Mr Ren), Year Level Coordinator (Mrs McKie) and Head of Senior School (Ms Woolcock).

To the parents and guardians of our Year 12 students, thank you for your partnership with the School. This is an important milestone for families as well as students, and we acknowledge the love, guidance and encouragement you have provided across many years. We look forward to sharing these final celebrations with you.

To our Year 12 students: thank you for the energy, generosity and spirit you have brought to Camberwell Girls. For your exciting next chapter ahead, I encourage you to find balance between work, rest, laughter, friendship, service and self-care. May you continue to be positive in attitude, faithful in friendship and generous in the service of others. May you learn from the challenges you face and grow in wisdom, understanding and compassion. And may you always remember that your varied gifts make our community stronger, and that our unity is more complete because of them.

Go gently, stay curious, be kind, and know that you will always belong to the Camberwell Girls community.

We send you forward with the words of the Blessing Song by Sharny Russell-Schlenker, traditionally sung at many of our end of year events:

May the Lord bless you today, and may he keep you in his care;

Giving his peace to your soul, even when times are hard.

May the Lord’s love flow through you, just like a never-ending stream;

Knowing his hand will be there when you call on his name:

May he always shine on you.

With best wishes,

Debbie Dunwoody
Principal