Today Mrs Dunwoody shares a piece written by one of our School Counsellors about how to support young people during challenging times.
After the success of Celebration Day, our community came together for a final time on Monday 20 October to celebrate and farewell the Class of 2025 through two significant events: the Leavers’ Service and the Valedictory Dinner. The Leavers’ Service, held at St Mark’s Church, provided an opportunity for reflection and gratitude, as students shared memories from their time at the School and acknowledged the support of their families, teachers and peers. Despite some inclement weather, spirits remained high as students returned to school for the traditional walk down the Torrington Street driveway. A moment filled with excitement, laughter and pride. Later that evening, the Valedictory Dinner which was proudly supported by the Parents and Friends Association, brought together parents and guardians, staff and students for a joy filled evening of celebration and fun.
With VCE exams now underway, a calm yet focused atmosphere has settled across the Secondary School as students prepare for their upcoming exams and final assessments. Amid their studies, students continue to find balance through a range of co-curricular pursuits. From gardening and exploring sustainable practices around the school, to engaging in STEM projects and even banding together to run 100km in support of the Go Girls Foundation, it has been a wonderful fortnight at Camberwell Girls.
We extend our very best wishes to all VCE students as they commence their examinations this week and hope that you enjoy reading the highlights from the last fortnight in this edition of CamNews.
Kath Woolcock
Head of Senior School
Tom Clark
Head of Middle School
On Monday 20 October 2025, we gathered at St Mark’s Church for our Year 12 Leavers’ Service, a location steeped in significance as the place where Camberwell Girls Grammar School began 105 years ago. It was also where our Year 12 students began their final year of schooling, on 2 February 2025, making this a poignant full circle moment for them and their families.
The Leavers’ Service remains a cherished tradition at Camberwell Girls. It connects our graduating students with the School’s rich history while looking ahead to their bright futures. The service offered an opportunity to commend our Year 12s for their dedication, kindness and leadership, and the legacy that they leave behind. It was also a time for students to express gratitude to the teachers, families, and mentors who have supported them throughout their journey.
As the service concluded, our Year 12 students made their way back to Camberwell Girls for a final walk down the school driveway to the Torrington Street gates, a moment filled with both excitement and nostalgia, marking the end of a significant chapter in their lives.
Later that evening, the Class of 2025, along with their parents, guardians, and staff, came together at Zinc in Federation Square for the Valedictory Dinner. This special event was a final celebration of achievements, friendships, and shared memories. We were honoured to have Murrundindi conduct a Welcome to Country, and to hear a moving and heartfelt speech from Dr Vicky Wang, mother of Elysia W, which made the evening even more memorable. The evening was filled with delicious food, warm conversations, and joyful dancing and was an unforgettable night for all.
Our Year 12 students are now immersed in their final exams, and it has been truly inspiring to witness their focus and determination. We extend our very best wishes for the weeks ahead and look forward to celebrating their accomplishments and future journeys in the months to come.
Kath Woolcock
Head of Senior School
Our talented VCE musicians are in full focus as they prepare for their upcoming performance assessments in Term 4!
Last week, they proudly presented works from their selected programs to an appreciative audience of family, friends and staff in the Robinson Hall. Students showcased a stunning variety of pieces that will soon be assessed by specialist VCE Music assessors. The diverse range of works presented were of a high standard and each student performed with creativity and confidence.
We are so proud of the dedication, passion, and artistry these students have shown in refining their performance skills. Congratulations to all our VCE musicians – you are shining examples of musical excellence! We wish you every success in your upcoming assessments.
Kate Savige
Director of Music (Curriculum)
During 2025, three Year 11 students participated in the veski Bionics Institute Girls in STEM Mentoring Program. The students worked with their mentor, Dr Urooj Khan, a Senior Lecturer and Course Co-ordinator for Digital Health at La Trobe University. A key focus of the program was “how can technology bring benefits in healthcare?” and in particular “what are the challenges in bringing digital solutions into reality for improved health outcomes?” Through mini research projects, Dr Khan guided the students to research digital healthcare and consider solutions to improve health outcomes.
The participation of the students and mentors was acknowledged at a celebration event on 9 October where the students got to meet Dr Khan and the other program participants. Each student has reflected on their participation in the program below.
I enjoyed participating in the veski Bionics Institute Girls in STEM Mentoring Program as I was able to further my understanding of the digital sector of healthcare, particularly how technology and innovation are used to improve patient outcomes. Erika, Year 11.
I enjoyed participating in the veski Bionics Institute Girls in STEM Mentoring Program because I was able to investigate a less represented aspect of STEM and realise the huge impact it was having on my life. I also appreciated that we were able to learn from someone who was so accomplished and could provide valuable insight about the subject. Layelle, Year 11.
Throughout our time with Dr Khan, we explored the profound impact of administrative AI in healthcare. Under her guidance, the once abstract allure of artificial intelligence became tangible, as she revealed how this seemingly extraordinary technology can serve even the most ordinary purpose, though without neglecting the intricate complexity behind its design. Larissa, Year 11.
Debbie Henson
Head of Science
Over the past two terms, Froggies (our school environmental and sustainability groups) have actively engaged in sustainability efforts across CGGS and the wider community. Lunchtime gatherings in the Woodstock courtyard featured planting, harvesting, and collaboration with ELC students and the Junior School Sustainability Squad.
During Environment Week in Term Two, students:
Froggies members Jessica M and Elsa W launched CGGS’s first Fix the Future podcast episode, promoting solutions-based journalism. Initiated by Camberwell Grammar School, the project now includes other Resource Smart Schools across Victoria. A second collaborative episode is underway.
White bins have also been introduced to collect eligible containers for the 10c scheme. Proceeds funded a nesting box for the endangered Greater Glider. On 18 November, Year 7 students will hear from Professor David Lindenmayer, a leading forest ecology expert, about the species and its habitat.
To reduce single-use waste, CGGS has introduced a reusable takeaway coffee cup, available at the canteen for $20.
Anna Clarkson
Mathematics and Geography Teacher
Sustainability Coordinator
Our Year 10 Chinese Second Language students recently took part in the “Spring into Chinese” workshop at Monash University, a dynamic event designed to immerse students in the richness of Chinese Language, Art and Culture.
The day commenced with a series of engaging keynote presentations, where Monash Academics introduced the University’s Chinese program and provided valuable insights into the transition from VCE Chinese to tertiary study. Students also learned about study-abroad opportunities, research pathways, and the vibrant student clubs and societies that support cultural learning at Monash. These sessions inspired many to envision their future studies and careers connected to Chinese language and culture.
In the first workshop session, students heard directly from former VCE Chinese students, who shared their experiences and practical advice on preparing for both oral and written examinations. Their insights equipped our students with effective strategies to strengthen their language proficiency and confidence, making the experience both informative and motivational.
The second session offered students an in-depth exploration of Chinese Language, Culture, and Society, delving into the enduring philosophies of Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism, three pillars of thought that have shaped Chinese civilization for over 2500 years. Through thoughtful discussion, students discovered how these ancient philosophies continue to influence contemporary Chinese values, traditions, and ways of life.
The final session invited students to experience the beauty of Chinese calligraphy, a traditional art form that combines language and artistry through the graceful use of brush and ink. Guided by instructors, students learned to appreciate the precision, rhythm, and aesthetic expression embedded in every stroke.
Overall, the “Spring into Chinese” workshop was an enriching and inspiring experience, deepening students’ appreciation for Chinese culture and language, and sparking a renewed enthusiasm to continue their learning journey in this vibrant field.
Crystal Zhang and Isabella Xu
Chinese Teachers
In this edition of CamNews, we welcome Amalia P (Year 11) to the leadership position of Camberwell Girls Grammar School Sport Captain.
Following on from older sister Sofia who held the portfolio of Sport Captain in 2023/24, Amalia has relished the opportunity to represent CGGS in the sporting domain since arriving as a Year 7 student, contributing to the fabric of the school community.
Having represented the school in the sports of AFL, Basketball, Indoor Cricket, Netball, Soccer, and Softball, Amalia cites Netball as her most favoured to play. A member of the all-conquering CGGS Silvers Netball team that have won 2024 and 2025 BNA Premierships, Amalia is best described as an ‘on-court’ leader, responsible for calling plays and initiating transition from the Wing Attack position.
Amalia has also represented the school at the GSV Athletics and Cross-Country Carnival level, rounding out a successful 2025 in which she claimed the Most Valuable Player Award for the Senior AFL team and Coaches Awards for the Senior Soccer and Softball teams.
Amalia is excited to be commencing her journey as the incumbent Sport Captain, cognisant that participation in sport delivers incredible learning opportunities for students, including developing communication, collaborative, and leadership skills.
We wish Amalia every success in driving the CGGS Sport programme forward in the year ahead.
Members of the CGGS Aquatic Swim Club have recorded impressive performances across the recent short course championship season.
Commencing with the Victorian Open Short Course Championships, CGGS swimmers produced a multitude of personal best results finishing in the top ten in their events, to qualify for the Australian Short Course Championships.
Prior to the national showcase of short course racing, CGGS competitors returned to MSAC to contest the Victorian Age Short Course Championships, fielding five relay teams. Special mention to School Captain – Anneka S (Year 11) – who proved mighty throughout her 8-event program, claiming a personal best result in the 100 metres Backstroke.
October ushered in the Australian Short Course Championships, where CGGS Aquatic enjoyed a strong national placing. The 4 x 50 metre Mixed Medley and 4 x 100 metre Men’s Medley recorded top twenty finishes in the nation. Anneka S (Year 11), Claire F (Year 11), and former School Captain – Emily P – were major contributors.
Congratulations to Allan L who finished in 6th position in the 50 metre Backstroke and 8th in the 25 metre Freestyle, qualifying for the World Aquatics Swimming World Cup in the US this October.
Attention now turns to the Long Course season with swimmers back in the CGGS Pool training diligently.
CGGS students took to Lakeside Stadium last weekend for the first two days of the Victorian All Schools Track & Field Championships.
This event provides the opportunity for students from public and private schools across the U14-U20 age groups, the chance to represent Victoria at the Australian All Schools Track & Field Championships in December.
First up for CGGS was Year 10 student – Emily L – competing in the Heats of the U16 100m, followed by Year 8 students – Hanna L and Aneira P – finishing 8th and 10th respectively in their U15 1500m timed Final.
Aneira then hit the track for a second event on the Saturday afternoon in the Heats of the U15 400m.
Nawita D (Year 8) was in competition mode on the Sunday, placing 7th in the U15 Discus Final. Nawita turns her attention to this weekend when she competes in her favoured Hammer Throw, an event where she claimed the silver medal earlier in the year at the Victorian State Athletics Championships.
Teams of Years 9 and 10 CGGS students were mighty in their fundraising efforts as part of their support for and participation in the Go Girls Foundation 100kmChallenge.
Staged at Lakeside Stadium, schools are set the impressive assignment of completing 100 kilometres in 4.5 hours, taking turns running the 400-metre athletics track, one team member at a time.
Congratulations to CGGS Orange, CGGS Pink and CGGS Purple who raised over $10,000.00 to assist the Go Girls Foundation in supporting women at risk to create a vision for their future. For a second consecutive year, Sass L (Year 10) utilised her considerable fundraising skills to raise the highest financial amount from the CGGS cohort, continuing from raising the most funds of any participant from any school in 2024!
Special mention to Ms Denise Tan for coordinating and driving this initiative, ensuring that CGGS continue contribute to and support the work of the Go Girls Foundation.
The Term 4 GSV Weekly Sport season is well underway, with students having the opportunity to play either Basketball, Cricket, Touch Football or Water Polo (Junior).
Several of the CGGS teams remain undefeated in their ambitions to progress to finals in late November, determined for a repeat of the Term 3 successes in which ten of seventeen CGGS teams played in their respective final’s campaigns.
Cameron Childs
Director of Sport
Today Mrs Dunwoody shares a piece written by one of our School Counsellors about how to support young people during challenging times.
It's been a busy few weeks celebrating the Class of 2025 and all their achievements.
Our Junior School musicians opened their rehearsal studios to their families this week.
Over the past fortnight, there have been many chances for our alum to gather, celebrate, and reminisce.
