Mrs Dunwoody speaks about the upcoming social media ban and its effects on our community.
The commencement of every school term brings a renewed sense of energy and optimism. As staff, we always look forward to that familiar hum of learning, shared spaces alive with conversation, classrooms full of questions, and the grounds buzzing with rehearsals, training sessions and co-curricular activities.
At this stage of the year, the true value of co-curricular life comes into focus. By Term 4, students are often fully immersed in their area of focus, growing in their skills and confidence, and revelling in the joy that comes from new friendships and connections.
At CGGS, the co-curricular opportunities offer important opportunities for students to explore their passions beyond the classroom. Whether through sport, music, leadership or service, each activity provides opportunities to broaden your child’s interests, learn new skills and find joy in new friendships. Already this term we have seen our students shine in so many ways. As you’ll read later in this edition, Olivia’s outstanding achievement in piano reflects not just musical talent, but the dedication and perseverance that come from hours of quiet practice. Theresa’s success at an international skating event highlights the sense of reward that comes from following your passion. And for our Year 5 and 6 students, this week’s camp at Phillip Island brought a chance to learn in natures classrooms and embrace new learning. These experiences reflect what it means to be part of our CGGS community, to give our best, support one another and find joy in both effort and achievement.
Families are encouraged to access to the Junior School Co-curricular timetable as this is a helpful way to view what is on offer and how to enrol your child.
Thank you for a wonderful first two weeks of Term 4.
In a demonstration of true student leadership, Year 6 student and Junior School Captain, Neesha N, has recently shown how initiative and care can make a real difference in the lives of others. Inspired to take action, Neesha turned everyday recycling into a project with purpose by collecting bottles and cans through the Container Deposit Scheme. Through her efforts, Neesha managed to raise $400 and decided to donate this to children in Sri Lanka so that they could purchase school supplies.
To add further meaning to her efforts, Neesha took the opportunity while on a family holiday to personally deliver the stationery packs to her dad’s former primary school.
Neesha’s leadership is another powerful example of living our school motto, Utilis In Ministerium, Useful in Service. In speaking with Neesha it is evident that not only did she positively impact the lives of others, but the whole process also enriched her a young person.
We are delighted to share that Olivia H (6H) has been awarded a Silver Award in the 4th Singapore International Music Competition 2025 for her performance in Piano. This outstanding achievement recognises Olivia’s dedication, talent, and commitment to her music passion. She has also been invited to perform and receive a personalised trophy at the Gala Concert Ceremony in Singapore later this year. Congratulations, Olivia, we are so proud of your wonderful accomplishment, and we really valued hearing more about your experience at last week’s JS Assembly.
While many were easing back into Term 4, Theresa (Year 4) was gliding across the skating rink and making waves on the international stage. Invited at short notice to compete in a national skating event in China, Theresa rose to the occasion and delivered a standout performance, taking first place in the Junior category. A big congratulations, Theresa, and thank you to her parents for capturing this moment on camera.
Nancy Robottom
Acting Head of Junior School
Emma Hinchliffe
Acting Head of Junior School
Some of our students represented the school with outstanding sportsmanship, determination, and enthusiasm at the Division Athletics on Tuesday 14 October at the Doncaster Athletics Track.
It was a wonderful opportunity for them to challenge themselves, support their peers and enjoy the spirit of the event.
As a result, the following students have progressed through to Regional:
Great results were also achieved by:
Our students demonstrated remarkable talent and dedication, well done.
Kim James
Head of Health, Physical Education and Sport (JS)
When we think back to our own school days, it’s often the camps and outdoor adventures that linger most vividly in our memories – the fun of sharing a cabin with peers, the thrill of a new challenge and the friendships strengthened through shared experiences. This week, that same sense of excitement filled the air as our Year 5 and 6 students arrived, bags in tow and smiles beaming, ready to embark on their long-awaited camp to Phillip Island.
At this age and stage of learning, this camp is designed to provide students with an opportunity to strengthen their independence and teamwork skills. And the coastal setting provides a perfect backdrop for students to embrace new experiences such high ropes and team initiatives.
Students were fortunate to have cool sunny days to make the most of adventure activities that took education into the outdoors. Students time away included challenging themselves to go high on the Giant Swing, speeding down the flying fox, developing skills of archery and working with a partner to master the canoes while not getting too wet. Murrindindi joined students to share stories and teach them to throw a boomerang. A highlight for many was watching the arrival of some 150 penguins on the beach. A fantastic week away strengthening old and new friendships, supporting each other and sharing in the excitement of the opportunity’s students had.
This year’s camp at Philip Island Resort, not only allowed me to be independent, but also allowed me to experience new activities that we wouldn’t do on regular days. This adventure will never be forgotten and will always be cherished! – Annabelle Z
Easily, camp was a huge highlight of the year for me. It was extremely fun as I enjoyed many different things, like gliding through the air on the twin flying fox and canoeing on the beautiful lake – Olivia H
The Year 5 and 6 camp this year was full of fun and enjoyment. During camp, I solved challenges- being scared by the height of the Flying Fox and learnt more about myself – I enjoy archery. I have also developed teamwork with my friend during the canoeing – Wendy Z
Don’t be scared if you are out of your comfort zone because if you finish that one thing that was scary you will believe that it was a really fun experience – Elsa
Camp has given me lots of new adventures and I am full of gratitude for the people who supported me during hard times – Amelia
Year 5 camp had many different points of view. We were able to challenge ourselves and be independent, but we also had lots of fun and got to know our classmates even better – Ajab
Margaret Hall
Year 5/6 Coordinator
To inspire original and creative thinking, our young learners at the ELC immersed themselves in the imaginative world of recycling through the engaging incursion Trash Puppets by Packed Productions. During the Term 3 holidays and in collaboration with families, children collected a range of recyclable materials from home – boxes, lids, newspapers, plastic bottles, and bits of scrap – all in anticipation of designing and constructing their very own puppet.
Through the performing arts of drama, dance, and song, the children laughed and participated in the lively performance Trash with a Porpoise before embarking on their own creative challenge. As imaginative problem-solvers, they designed and built puppets that could “come to life,” considering how everyday recyclable objects might move or talk. They discovered how “trash” could be transformed into something new and wonderful, with each puppet as unique as the child who created it.
This hands-on experience deepened children’s understanding of caring for our planet by reusing, recycling, and being mindful of the finite resources we use every day. The workshop not only sparked creativity but also inspired meaningful conversations about sustainability, how small actions, such as reusing scrap paper or understanding our school’s waste management system, can make a big difference. These ideas continue to influence and enrich our curriculum, and we look forward to how it will extend as the term progresses.
Esther Wong
Early Learning Coordinator
Term 3 concluded with numerous sporting achievements, and Term 4 began with celebrations at the Year 11 & 12 Presentation Evening.
The Years 5 & 6s enjoyed their time at camp, and there are many individual achievements to celebrate.
