Year 7 Languages
On 8 April 2025, Year 7 Chinese language students gathered in Hender Hall for a cultural immersion incursion led by Zhao Liang from the School of Chinese Music and Arts (Adelaide). The enriching session explored the beauty and significance of traditional Chinese instruments, offering students a deeper appreciation of Chinese music and cultural traditions. Through a captivating live performance, interactive workshop and hands-on instrument learning, students discovered the unity between Eastern and Western music, making it a memorable and inspiring experience.
Angela Sciberras-Xiong
Acting Head of AIF/EIF
Year 7 Wellbeing Day
On Friday 9 May, Year 7 students participated in the inspiring Enlighten Education Program, a full-day event designed to develop critical developmental social, emotional, and organisational skills required to foster interpersonal relationships, resilience, time-management, and community among our girls.
The program opened with an engaging introductory session filled with laughter and personal storytelling, with presenter Joy sharing a story about her cultural Pilipino upbringing, immediately setting the tone for the day and interweaving the key ideas about identity, values, and difference.
Students then immersed themselves in interactive workshops including "Keep Calm and Journal On," where they creatively expressed themselves through art and reflection; "Forever Friends," focusing on building healthy, respectful, and supportive relationships; and "Chill Out," teaching relaxation and mindfulness strategies to use to navigate complex emotions. They also developed essential organisational skills during "Get it Together."
The day concluded with the powerful "More Than a Body—A Somebody" session, empowering students to critically evaluate damaging societal messages and nurture positive self-image and self-worth. Prior to leaving, students collectively acknowledged and pledged to one another how they will actively promote the key messages of the day among their cohort through a promise of respect, encouragement, and honour.
I thought we were just going to sit down and listen to someone talk to us and that this would be super boring but I was wrong! Joy was able to improve my well-being in such an incredible way. The best part of today was having the chance to say positive things about our friends and being able to learn about all the things that make are strong and powerful. Thank you for reminding me that I have the power to shape my story and the way that I speak to myself matters. Sometimes girls don't even realise that the biggest enemy can actually be ourselves, but you've made me realise that I can change that.
Anonymous
Andrew Mittiga
Acting Head of Cedar House
Year 9 French Market Day
In the final week of Term 1, Year 9 French students brought Hender Hall to life with a mini-market inspired by French-speaking cultures.
From Moroccan mint tea to Belgian waffles and Brittany mussels, students used their language skills to shop, sell and negotiate—entirely in French. The activity blended culture and creativity, building confidence and connection.
Areebah Ahmad
French Teacher
Year 9 REALISE Adventure
Our first REALISE group for 2025 wrapped up an incredible adventure at the end of Term 1! The girls faced new challenges, built strong connections, and explored some new landscapes. From golden sunsets at Dyurrite (Mount Arapiles), to wild weather kayaking in the Coorong, and braving the surf at Robe, the experience was unforgettable for all. New friendships blossomed, life skills were gained, and everyone returned with fresh perspectives and lifelong memories.
Rosie Smith
Outdoor Education Teacher
Wilderness China Tour 2025
In Week 11 of Term 1, 20 students from Years 9 and 10, accompanied by three staff members, embarked on an unforgettable 17-day language and cultural tour of China. Their journey took them through the vibrant cities of Beijing, Xi’an, and Chengdu, offering rich opportunities for learning and exploration.
In Beijing, students attended Mandarin language classes and stayed at Keystone Academy, a Round Square school. There, they joined local students in classroom activities and shopping excursions, practising their Chinese in real-life settings. Highlights of the Beijing leg included visiting the Great Wall of China and learning to cook Gong Bao Ji Ding at a traditional cooking school.
In Xi’an, students explored the world-famous Terracotta Warriors and tested their cycling skills by riding tandem bikes along the ancient city wall. The tour concluded in Chengdu, where students had the unique experience of visiting a panda research centre, preparing food for the pandas, and learning about vital conservation efforts.
The trip was a remarkable blend of cultural immersion, language development, and hands-on experiences. Our students returned with enhanced language skills, a deeper appreciation of Chinese culture, and lasting memories shared with peers and new friends.
Sport Update
Our Years 3 to 12 students hit the track recently for the annual Interhouse Cross Country. Whether racing to the finish or pacing themselves, every girl contributed valuable points to her House—and the encouragement from the sidelines made it all the more special. Thank you to the parents (and dogs!) who came along to support them.
Congratulations to Sparaxis House who were the overall winners on the day!
Jonathon Koutsikas
Director of Sport and Recreation
