Mrs McClure introduces the community to a new program - The Thrive Project.
As the cooler weather well and truly begins to settle in, the energy and enthusiasm across the Secondary School have certainly not slowed, with students continuing to embrace the many opportunities on offer both in and beyond the classroom.
Last week’s Founders Service provided an opportunity to pause and reflect on the vision, courage and dedication of those who came before us, and on the strong sense of community, service and learning that continues to shape the School today. From our beginnings in 1920 with just eight students, to the vibrant and thriving School we know today, it was a fitting moment to celebrate both our history and our future as we marked the School’s 106th birthday.
Students have also participated in a range of camps and experiential learning opportunities, with several of our musicians and ensembles participating in Music Camp on the Mornington Peninsula; while our Year 9 students completed a series of artisan and adventure trails as part of their Year Level Camp at Warburton. Alongside these experiences, co-curricular opportunities have continued in full swing. House spirit was also on full display at House Athletics, with students enthusiastically participating, supporting one another and contributing to the vibrant atmosphere with Taylor House victorious on the day.
Today also marks the conclusion of Celebrating Diversity Week, an important student-led weeklong initiative that continues to foster belonging, understanding and inclusion across our community. Led by the School’s Wellbeing Committee, under the guidance of Ms Kylie Rose, students and staff engaged in a range of lunchtime activities and conversations that celebrated the wonderful diversity that exists in our school community and more globally. We are incredibly proud of the leadership and advocacy shown by our students throughout the week and thank all involved for their contribution to such an important program, and we look forward to sharing highlights in our next edition of CamNews.
Kath Woolcock
Head of Senior School
Tom Clark
Head of Middle School
Nini C (Year 10) has achieved outstanding success on Violin, performing at the Suzuki International Festival Gala Concert, held in Melbourne during the Easter holiday break. This prestigious four-day event brings together talented young musicians for intensive learning with international and Australian based educators, alongside participation in ensemble workshops, masterclasses and concerts. The Gala Concert showcases advanced young musicians and provides an incredible opportunity for students to share their passion for music performance with like-minded musicians.
Nini’s performance of Josef Suk’s Appassionato Op. 17 No. 2 demonstrated a mature sense of musicality and control across a broad range of technical and expressive elements. The invitation to perform (via audition) is testament to Nini’s dedication to practice, thoughtful preparation, and a commitment to refining both technical skills and musical expression. Performing for an audience of approximately 400 people made this a thrilling and highly valuable experience, highlighting the significance of this achievement at such a prestigious event. Nini’s musical journey continues with her VCE Music studies, participation in a range of school ensembles and ongoing Suzuki performance opportunities; which are supporting the development of her musical excellence and growth as a musician.
Kate Savige
Director of Music – Curriculum
Rohan Mack
Director of Music – Instrumental
Over two days, the Unit 2 Geography class embarked on a fieldwork to Phillip Island. The purpose of the trip was to investigate the impacts of tourism in the region. Upon arrival, we stopped at the Information Centre to gather information about locations we would be exploring. Then, in Cowes, we interviewed people to help us identify the characteristics of tourism that attract people to the Island. Hearing different perspectives enabled us to broaden our knowledge about why people choose to visit this destination.
We also heard from Kim Storey, from Destination Phillip Island. We found her presentation on tourism at Phillip Island to be fascinating and gave valuable insight for our learning. Following that we had the opportunity to see adorable koalas and learn more about them at the Koala Conservation Reserve.
The highlight of our trip was experiencing the Penguin Parade where we were able to watch penguins as they returned to their burrow from being out at sea and interact with each other. We also learned about the history of the Penguin Parade, and the positive ways in which changes were made to ensure the penguins are protected and can thrive.
On our last day we visited Churchill Island, were we learned about the land use change of the area from originally being solely for agriculture to tourism. We even got to say hello to some cows grazing in a paddock!
Overall, it was a beneficial experience, and we are very grateful to everybody that made it happen.
Written by Sophie P (Year 11)
Students and staff recently travelled to Mount Eliza for a weekend of rehearsals in preparation for upcoming celebratory events as part of the opening of the newly refurbished Barbara Sutton Hall. Music Camp offered students valuable opportunities to participate in instrumental and vocal ensembles, alongside a range of activities. All participants came together to sing the School Anthem, and many students participated in a combined orchestra and band to acknowledge Star Wars Day on May the 4th. Choir sessions emphasised high-quality part singing and the integration of expressive and purposeful movement. Music Camp allows students to focus on music-making while collaborating with peers who share their interests, fostering musical growth and a strong sense of community.
A particular highlight for the students was the House Trivia evening, hosted by School Music Captain Sophie T and School House Captain Naomi C, where students and teachers alike came together for some friendly competition. It was wonderful to see everyone dressed in creative costumes inspired by the theme of Iconic Music Videos, and the costumes certainly did not disappoint.
Kate Savige and Rohan Mack – Directors of Music
Each year, returning to Camp Manyung in Mount Eliza for Music Camp is something I look forward to, and this year was full of highlights. At Trivia Night, the “Music Videos” theme inspired a vibrant display of creative costumes and energetic runway performances from students across all year levels, as well as the participating staff.
What makes Music Camp so special is, not only the opportunity to rehearse and improve our music pieces, but also the chance to spend time in such a beautiful natural environment. Musicians across all year levels can connect, create new memories, strengthen friendships and step away from the bustle of school life. Overall, the three short but jam-packed days at Music Camp were filled with moments of music making, laughter and inclusivity, making this year’s camp another unforgettable experience.
Sophie T – School Music Captain (Year 12)
The Reverend Tim Collison warmly welcomed students in years 7, 11 and 12 to St Mark’s Church on Wednesday 6 May, as we gave thanks for those who have shaped the history of the school in our annual Founders’ Service. The theme of the service was “God is merciful, just, loving . . . and glad to see you!” As Reverend Helen Creed explained in her homily, “We have often focused on God’s compassion, this year we want to notice the gladness of God.” It was heart-warming to hear Hannah F (yr 7), Hannah C (yr 11) and Rithanyaa (yr 12) speak on the theme, and our worship was supported by a wonderful group of musicians: Asha B (yr 10), Olivia H (yr 7), Emily F (yr 10), Emily L (yr 12), Nini C (yr 10).
Reverend Helen Creed
On Monday 11 May, we kicked off our new initiative with Camberwell (Boys) GrammarSchool: a conversation series between Year 12 students from both Schools. The idea behind the program was to create an opportunity for students to build meaningful connections, exchange perspectives, network, and discuss topics that are relevant to both our own lives and the wider world. Camberwell (Boys) Grammar School graciously hosted the first session, welcoming us with snacks and icebreakers that quickly helped everyone feel comfortable and engaged. From the beginning, the atmosphere was warm, energetic and full of conversation, setting the tone for an enjoyable afternoon.
The topic for this first session was “The Road Ahead”, chosen because it encouraged us to reflect on our futures and hear different perspectives from students experiencing many of the same uncertainties and ambitions. In groups of six, we discussed plans for university, travelling, gap years, and possible career pathways, while also sharing our hopes and concerns about life after school. The conversations were thoughtful, honest and often filled with laughter, making it easy to connect with new people. It was a fantastic opportunity to step outside our usual circles, meet students from another school, and realise how many shared experiences we have. We are already looking forward to hosting the next session at our school in Term 3 and continuing to strengthen our connections.
Anneka S, Christina W, Amber C (Year 12)
On Wednesday 13 May, we had the privilege of attending the Association of Anglican Girls’ Schools luncheon at the Lyceum Club in the city. The event brought together principals and school captains from seven girls’ schools across Melbourne, creating a wonderful opportunity to connect with other student leaders. Upon arrival, we enjoyed catching up with captains we had previously met at a leadership conference in Sydney earlier this year. The afternoon began with a lively game of bingo, which helped everyone get to know one another better in a relaxed and welcoming environment, before we sat down to enjoy a delicious lunch together.
One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity to share ideas, initiatives and experiences from our respective schools. Through these conversations, we discovered many similarities in the projects and goals we were working towards, while also gaining valuable insight into the different ways other captains approached leadership within their school communities. The principals also shared thoughtful advice about leadership and future opportunities, encouraging us to remain confident, embrace challenges, and continue pursuing leadership roles beyond school. Overall, the luncheon was an incredibly rewarding experience and a valuable opportunity to strengthen connections, exchange ideas, and learn from other inspiring student leaders and educators.
Anneka S, Christina W, Amber C (Year 12)
Tuesday 5 May provided ideal weather conditions for the staging of the annual Secondary School House Cross Country Carnival at Duncan Mackinnon Reserve.
The event program catered for all participants, from those motivated by high performance to others focused on contributing to their House through the much-loved Novelty Relay events.
The blue-riband event, the 100 Metre Champions Race, proved to be as thrilling as in past years, with Emily L (Year 11) once again saluting the judges as first past the post! Congratulations to all sprinters that qualified for this event with their finishing placings below:
After winning the Champion Athletics House title on five occasions in the past decade, Taylor House was primed to make it a sixth championship in eleven years, after their Term 1 heroics in claiming Cross-Country and Diving honours.
Led by Year 11 House Sport Captains – Sass L and Alexia S-A – Taylor did not disappoint, raising the Championship Cup, a cause for jubilant celebration amongst the Taylor faithful.
The House Championship finishing places were:
Congratulations to the students from Singleton House that were awarded the cherished Spirit Stick in recognition of their commitment to House cheers and patriotism demonstrated across the carnival.
As is custom, the Year Level Champions will be formally announced at an upcoming School Assembly and then celebrated in the following edition of CamNews.
Thank you to Ms El Wood (Director of Co-Curricular Programs), Mr Darren Smyth (Director of School Operations), Ms Alexia McConnell (Sports Administrator), Heads of House, House Sport Captains, Sport Captain – Amalia P (Year 12), School House Captain – Naomi C (Year 12), and the Friends of Sport spearheaded by Mrs Leanne Lewis.
Several Camberwell Girls students have been enjoying the twice-weekly Camberwell Girls Run Club training sessions on Wednesday and Friday mornings (7.00-8.00am) in the lead-in to the GSV Cross Country Carnivals.
With sessions led by Ms Kaitlin Barr (Year 7 Coordinator & Physical Education Teacher) who umpired her second AFL match this past Sunday, students are mentored by a highly talented and knowledgeable running coach (Kaitlin covers on average 18-Kilometres per AFL match!).
It was a spirited performance from the following Year 9 students – Dahlia B, Luna C, Hanna L, Aneira P – completing the combined 12-Kilometre course in a time of 56 minutes and13 seconds at Princes Park on Saturday 2 May.
Competing in the U16 Female category at this Athletics Victoria event, the Camberwell Girls team crossed the Finish Line in 23rd position, taking another step in their preparation for the Term 2 GSV Cross Country Carnival season.
Congratulations to Year 7 students – Abigail H and Elsie W – on their achievements in the Waverley Tennis District Association (WTDA).
For the past two seasons, Abigail and Elsie have competed in the WTDA and recently claimed first place in the Girls Special D for the 2026 Summer season. In a remarkable performance, both students won all their Singles and Doubles matches.
As one half of the dynamic duo that comprise the Taylor House Sport Captains portfolio, Alexia S-A (Year 11) is relishing the silverware that Taylor House seems to be collecting at will, in this the 2026 House Sport Carnival campaign.
With victories in the House Athletics, Cross-Country, and Diving Carnivals this year, Alexia, alongside her fellow Sport Captain Sass L (Year 11), are leading the green machine into a period of sporting dominance that is to be admired by all and sundry.
Alexia loves the opportunity to generate high levels of energy and excitement amongst the Taylor House members, motivating them to participate and strive for the ultimate outcome, Champion House accomplishment. Alexia values the ability for her fellow students to embrace a level of determination where they will apply themselves to work towards results, energised by the prospect of continual forward motion.
A student at Camberwell Girls since 2021 when she arrived in Year 5, Alexia cites GSV Basketball as her favourite sport to play. She enjoys the agile thinking and split decision-making demands of this sport and reflected that great memories were created in the 2024 and 2025 Finals campaigns, competing against several state players.
An incredible contributor to Sport at Camberwell Girls over the past seven years, Alexia has represented the school in AFL, Athletics, Basketball, Cross Country, Diving, Indoor Cricket, Tennis, and Triathlon.
A little-known fact about Alexia is that she is an avid Scuba Diver, holding a PADI Open Water 12 metres qualification. One of Alexia’s favourite dive sites is the Yasawa Islands in Fiji.
Cameron Childs
Director of Sport
The Early Learning 4 children have been exploring ‘slow stitching’, learning about its calming, meditative effects.
The Mother’s Day breakfast was held in a new location this year, with the refreshed format filling the library with laughter and conversation.
