Term 2 has provided the Wilderness School community with many opportunities to reflect and engage deeply with our past and future. Events such as Founder’s Day and National Reconciliation Week have opened new avenues for insight and understanding of the past and how we intend to move forward. Looking to the future, our SRC President Niya Singhal has recently presented at a conference on Reskilling Revolution: Preparing for the Future Workforce Landscape. As always, I continue to be inspired by the thoughtful contributions of our students, staff, and wider community.
Student Voice at the Forefront of South Australia’s Economic Future
At a recent Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA) event held at the Adelaide Convention Centre, Reskilling Revolution: Preparing for the Future Workforce Landscape, our SRC President, Niya Singhal, delivered the final address and summary presentation to an audience of government, education, and industry leaders. Representing not just Wilderness School but the voice of young South Australians, Niya spoke with insight, conviction, and a clear grasp of the challenges and opportunities facing our future workforce. She reflected on key themes raised by the panel, ranging from AI literacy and trade skills in regional SA to innovation, migration, and the brain drain and made a compelling case for including young people in decision making processes that shape their futures.
Her contributions highlight the importance of equipping young people with the skills, mindset, and ethical grounding needed to navigate a rapidly evolving landscape. At Wilderness, this begins with our Artemis curriculum, which encourages students to think critically, adapt with confidence, and engage meaningfully with the world around them. Through programs like Artemis and Futures and Foresight, we are deliberately helping our girls to shape their futures.
It is both encouraging and energising to see one of our girls step so confidently into this space. Niya’s voice is an example of our young people having agency in leading their futures.
Founder’s Day
Founder’s Day remains a deeply cherished tradition for us. This year’s assembly brought together students, staff, and old scholars to learn about and honour the legacy of the Misses Brown —Wilderness School’s pioneers whose vision and dedication continue to shape our school’s identity. Following the assembly, it was wonderful to see old scholars reconnecting over a heartfelt lunch in Hender Hall, sharing memories and reflecting on their time at Wilderness. We are proud to carry forward their legacy and the values that make our school uniquely special.
National Reconciliation Week
During National Reconciliation Week, our Reconciliation Assembly was a meaningful event where we acknowledged the rich cultural heritage of Australia's First Nations people, held on Kaurna land. It was an opportunity to reflect on the importance of respect, understanding, and reconciliation within our community. Our library displays complemented the week’s theme, Bridging Now to Next, featuring a wide selection of literature for all ages to help deepen our understanding of history and culture.
Ukaria Chamber Concert
Our talented string orchestras and chamber ensembles recently spent an unforgettable Sunday immersed in music at the stunning Ukaria Cultural Centre in Mount Barker.
Throughout the day, students rehearsed in this world-class venue, refining their ensemble playing and soaking up the inspiring surroundings. The experience culminated in a beautiful afternoon concert, showcasing the depth of talent and musical sensitivity across all ensembles.
It was a truly memorable day for performers and audience alike—a wonderful opportunity to share music in a space that celebrates artistry and connection through live performance.
Belinda Arnfield
Principal
