As we have reached our final newsletter for 2023, I am reflecting upon all the ways our community has enabled our girls to grow and learn throughout the course of this year.

Led by our SRC, the Year 12 cohort modelled Unity and Identity to the whole school, encouraging every person to be championed for their strengths and ideas. This was embraced by all year levels. As girls enjoyed individual successes, they used these achievements to better those around them. There has been an equal measure of sharing skills and learning from others.

From Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards to national STEM championships, Wilderness girls continue to amaze me by the variety of interests, skills and passions they contribute to our school. Our educators have nurtured and guided students to be the best that they can be, encouraging them to seek excellence in all they do.

I believe that one of Wilderness’ key strengths is the way we leverage the wisdom of our community, who are so generous with their time. I greatly thank all old scholars and parents who visited our classes, forums and mock interviews throughout the year to share their knowledge. For all other contributions made by parents throughout the year – be it driving boarders to and from sporting events, attending girls’ performances or volunteering at Parents and Friends events – thank you. These acts of kindness make Wilderness thrive.

I thank each of you for being part of our Wilderness community in 2023. We know that for many parents, their child’s school is a key place of belonging. I am grateful to each year level’s class representatives, as well as our Parents and Friends Association, for continuing to foster this aspect of our community.

As I wish you a wonderful end to the term, I also look forward to seeing you at our end of year events. This past week, the ELC Christmas Concert and Annies Graduation kicked off our annual celebrations. It is always a joy to see the Mamie girls in their iconic angel costumes and have the pleasure of handing out ‘diplomas’ to the Annies, who have grown so much as learners during their time in the ELC.

We are greatly anticipating 2024 and all that it will bring, including the School’s 140^th anniversary. Until then, I wish you a safe and restful break following the end of term, and we will look forward to welcoming students back to school on Tuesday 30 January.

Staff Update – Head of Boarding

Following tremendous contribution and achievement in her role as Head of Boarding, Ms Renee Coventry will be moving on from Wilderness to pursue an extraordinary opportunity overseas.

Renee has accepted the prestigious position as International Principal at Haileybury School Tianjin in China. It is a testament to Renee’s exceptional leadership, accomplishments and character to be selected for the position, which will allow her to continue to grow personally and professionally. The decision to move on was a difficult one and Renee will be missed greatly.

Please be assured that we will begin recruitment immediately to select another outstanding leader who will bring the same care and innovation to the Boarding House. Renee will continue in the role until mid-February 2024, and we will share further updates promptly.

Stage 2 Early Years Development Update

When we return in the new year, we look forward to our girls learning in the highly anticipated Early Learning Centre redevelopment. From Term 1 2024, our Mamie and Annie learners will move into the beautifully renovated Number 16 Hawkers Road.

The move means that Stage 2 of our Early Years Development is now set to begin, with the construction of a new Reception to Year 2 learning area to commence in February 2024. To enable construction, our Reception and Year 1 girls will be moving up to the Junior School from the beginning of Term 1 2024. A new play space, being created solely for our Reception – Year 2 learners, will be open from the start of term, including a playground, cubby and sandpit.

Ensuring that our girls’ learning, wellbeing and play are incredibly enriching, while building their sense of belonging, remain our highest priorities. Please be assured that the greatest care has been placed on providing a successful transition, with additional details to follow for relevant year levels closer to Term 1.

If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact the Junior School via email. We look forward to sharing a successful 2024 with you.