Earlier in the week, we welcomed back recent graduate Allegra Kleinig (2023) to unveil her portrait in the Nucleus, recognising her Bronze Bragg Medal. She spoke of her respect and deep gratitude for David Pyman, her Physics teacher for three years, and how he had played such an important role in her scientific journey.
The relationships between girls and their teachers are fundamental in fostering a supportive and empowering learning environment. Teachers serve not only as educators but also as mentors, guiding their students through academic challenges and personal growth. A strong, positive relationship between a girl and her teacher can boost confidence, encourage curiosity, and inspire a lifelong love of learning. These connections are especially significant when they empower girls to envision themselves as capable leaders and changemakers.
On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the vital role that educators—especially women—play in shaping the futures of young girls. Teachers can be a source of inspiration, helping to break down gender stereotypes and encouraging girls to pursue their dreams without limitations. The bonds formed in these educational spaces help girls develop a sense of self-worth, belonging, and strength, contributing to a more equitable and inclusive world for future generations.
Below you will read about the Year 7 Camp, a wonderful opportunity for girls to form not only relationships with their Heads of House and Form Teachers, but with each other. Our Outdoor Education program provides our students and staff with multiple opportunities to do this outside of the classroom.
Rhiannon Giles
Head of Middle School
Year 7 Outdoor Education Camp
This term, our Year 7 students had an incredible opportunity to embark on their Outdoor Education camp at Crawford Campus, set along the Coorong. The camp is a key part of their transition into Middle School, offering a chance to form new friendships and strengthen existing relationships while navigating a range of exciting and challenging activities.
The students participated in a variety of water-based adventures, including surfing at Robe, kayaking on Tintinara Lake, sailing with the Meningie Sailing Club and a camping experience at Tea Tree Crossing where they learn about the diverse waterways, ecosystems and culture on Ngarrindjeri land. These experiences deepened students' understanding of the environment while encouraging collaboration and problem-solving.
A huge thank you to all the staff who supported the students during this memorable experience: form teachers Francesca Dieu, Ruth Shrimpton, Brad Waller, Mia Ellis, and Angela Sciberras-Xiong, along with the Heads of House Andrew Mittiga, Julie Grant, Marnie Eddington, Kara Bigg, and Maria Criaris for supporting the girls throughout the camp. Special thanks to the Outdoor Education staff Jed De Ruyter, Sean Meredith, Ellie Stroeher, Holli Rawson and Imogen Batt-Doyle for facilitating such a fantastic program. Their dedication made the camp a valuable and enriching experience for all involved.
We look forward to seeing the growth and friendships that come out of this experience as the Year 7 students continue their Middle School journey.
Cassandra Marousopoulos
Outdoor Education Teacher
