eNews Archive Issue 16 - 29 May 2025

Each year, we use the funds raised for the Panama Fund (Bursaries) to assist students and their families. In terms of building funds, our master plan has identified not fewer than nineteen projects we would like to pursue over time. With the continued generosity of members of our community, rest assured that your daughters and/or granddaughters will have the opportunity to experience these identified works.

Excitedly, the Canopy Café (one of these identified projects) is almost open for business; and we will be operating the café at full capacity by the start of Term 3.

Also, at the beginning of Term 3 we have re-engineered the staff car parks which will see a reduction in staff parking on Towers Street. Hopefully, this means parents will be able to park further down Towers Street at pick-up time and your daughter can walk to you.

Thank you, too, to those members of the community who have nominated a teacher for the NEiTA awards. There is still time to nominate if you would like this opportunity to recognise a teacher for their hard work, high quality teaching and support. The National Excellence in Teaching Awards (NEiTA) nominations are open until Friday, 27 June 2025. Please visit the NEiTA website to nominate. 

Thank you for considering nominating a member of the St Margaret’s teaching staff. It is always a delight for a staff member to receive feedback that they were nominated.

There are still a few tickets left for our Professional Women’s Network breakfast on Wednesday 11 June. Please read the Development and Community section of this newsletter to find out more information. However, for those who have not been to these breakfasts before, we run them four times per year and the breakfast is over by 8:30am so people can get to work by 9:00am. I would encourage you to consider attending, perhaps with your secondary-aged daughter, a future or prospective parent or a work colleague. The speakers are always interesting and encouraging, not to mention the breakfast and entertainment.

Ros Curtis

Your daughter will soon receive an email from Select My Subjects with instructions on how to submit her subject preferences for 2026, as outlined during the information sessions.

Here’s a quick overview of the subject selection process by year level:

• Year 8 students will choose 2 minor subjects and 1 major subject to study in Year 9 (2026).
• Year 9 students will select 2 major subjects and a Certificate Qualification for Year 10 (2026).
• Year 10 students will decide on their academic pathway for Years 11 and 12 (2026–2027). We encourage students to choose subjects they both enjoy and excel in, as these are most likely to lead to success. Subject selection is also guided by set criteria to ensure students have access to a broad range of future opportunities.

Looking ahead, Year 7 students will receive their online subject selection form early next term. They will be asked to choose 2 of the following subjects to study in Year 8 (2026): Drama, Music, and Visual Art.

If you have any questions or need further guidance, please don’t hesitate to contact me, our Dean of Academics, or our Dean of Studies.

Nicole Devlin

This year marks the 30^th Reconciliation Week in Australia, an integral part of Australia’s culture and the recognition of Indigenous Australian communities, languages and history. It is an important time to reflect on the reconciliation journey our country has had, and to acknowledge the path to a better future for everyone.

Reconciliation is defined as a time to reflect on the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their relationship with non-Indigenous Australians, however, for every person, this can mean something different.

For us, this means using the opportunity of Reconciliation Week to learn about Indigenous culture so that we can remain informed and understanding of the vast history. It is also a time of reflection on the past injustices towards indigenous Australians, so that we can move forward with equality.

This year’s theme is Bridging Now to Next. It calls on all Australians to step forward together, to look ahead and continue to push forward as past lessons guide us. Reconciliation week begins on the 27^th of May and ends on the 3^rd of June. This date is significant as the 27^th of May marks the date of the successful 1967 referendum where it was voted to remove discriminatory clauses from the constitution that negatively impacted Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Additionally, June the 3^rd is Mabo Day, an important date in the Australian calendar that remembers Eddie Koiki Mabo, and his vital work to pass legislation for native title rights.

Some important events in the history of National Reconciliation Week include the 2001 march across Sydney Harbour Bridge, where 300,000 people showed their support for reconciliation and the 2008 apology speech, in which Prime Minister Kevin Rudd issued a formal apology on behalf of all Australians regarding the mistreatment of Indigenous Australians in the Stolen Generation. Perhaps the most important events though, are the small and large acts of protest and activism made by those in the indigenous Australian community, who continually volunteer to educate the misinformed and push for change in Australia.

Upon reflection, [we] have realised the importance of continued learning in reconciliation. Our research and understanding have shown us that ignorance is often the barrier to our Australian reconciliation journey. In future, we challenge those in the audience to pursue conversations with an openness for change and to listen to the stories of those around them. These are the paths to reconciliation that will truly bridge our country from now to next.

Andie and Polly, Year 11, 2025

Rev’d Jazz Dow

Each weekend, students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of outings designed to promote balance, build resilience and strengthen community. Whether it’s a relaxing trip to Mooloolaba Beach, a mindfulness session on campus, enjoying a cultural outing to a museum, or savouring the ever-popular “sweet treat” from Eat Street Markets, the focus is on providing positive, enriching experiences that cater to the whole person.

Boarders are also encouraged to engage with the wider community through collaborative events. A recent example was the Nudgee Social for Mental Health Day, where students from St Margaret’s joined peers from Nudgee, Stuartholme and Clayfield for shared activities, including painting a tree blue to raise awareness for mental health. These events not only foster inter-school friendships but also support meaningful conversations about wellbeing.

Cultural and educational outings such as day trips to South Bank help boarders learn to navigate public transport using a Go Card, explore museums, and experience the diverse cultural offerings of Brisbane. These experiences help build confidence and independence—key skills for life beyond school.

Sporting events are another popular feature of the weekend program. Students have the opportunity to attend Broncos, Dolphins and Reds games, offering excitement and community spirit. Just as importantly, outings to Wallaroos matches highlight the school’s commitment to supporting women in sport and providing inspiring female role models.

Excursions to Dreamworld and Sea Life Mooloolaba give students the chance to have fun, laugh, and let go of the week’s pressures. While social events like the Churchie Dance encourage friendships beyond the St Margaret’s community and help nurture social growth in a safe and supported environment.

These weekend activities form a vital part of St Margaret’s boarder pastoral care program. They offer a structured yet flexible way for boarders to relax, connect with others, and recharge from their busy academic lives, while also building essential social and emotional skills.

The thoughtful variety—from calming mindfulness sessions to high-energy excursions—ensures that every girl can find something that speaks to her interests and needs. This inclusive and student-focused approach reflects the school’s deep commitment to the holistic wellbeing of each boarder.

Kelli Boucaut

Year 10 SET Plan Meetings

All students will have received a meeting appointment with their SET Plan interviewer. A reminder that they will need to complete the SET Plan questionnaire in Learning Analytics prior to their meeting.

For those students selecting an ATAR pathway, we recommend students back themselves and select five subjects. By selecting five subjects, students will have an Independent Learning Option (ILO) line, giving her 4.5 hours of school time each week to dedicate to her remaining subjects. With the additional time afforded by this line, there should be no need for a “back up” subject. If a student wishes to follow a variation to this, it can be discussed with me following their SET Plan meeting.

If students and parents have any questions regarding subject selection these can either be asked at SET Plan Meetings or directed to the appropriate teacher, Head of Faculty or myself in the lead up to these meetings.

“Choose subjects you genuinely enjoy… and make the most of your teachers – they’re an invaluable resource who are there to guide you, provide feedback, and help you navigate challenges” – Lily Alford, ’24.

Caitlin McCluskey

Missed Lessons

Students are responsible for seeking out what content and exercises they have missed in a lesson and endeavour to catch up as soon as is practicable. Often teachers will have information and homework for each lesson on their class OneNotes or POD Pages, so students are encouraged to look in these areas first to save unnecessary emails back and forth.

Missed Assessments – for all Years 7 to 11 students who are unexpectedly absent on the day an exam is scheduled.

1. Student downloads and completes the Missed Exam form (from the Year Level POD Page) as soon as practical.
2. Student emails completed Missed Exam form to the Head of Faculty with supporting documentation.
3. Students in Years 7 to 10 complete the exam in the library during Lessons 2A/2B on their first day back at school. Students in Years 11 & 12 will organise to resit exams with Dean of Academics, Ms McCluskey's, office.

Note: If a student has missed multiple exams, they will complete exams on consecutive days in the original order.

Subject Selection Evenings

Thank you to the parents and students who attended the Subject Selection Evenings this week, either in-person or online. If parents or students wish to watch a recording of any of these evenings, the videos will be placed on the Subject Selection POD Page, which can be accessed via your daughter’s Year Level POD Page.

Chris Dunn

Studies show that socially popular students are often empathetic, cooperative, and skilled at conflict resolution (Wentzel, 2003). They engage in inclusive behaviours, such as inviting others to participate in activities and showing kindness, which strengthens their social networks. Emotional intelligence also plays a significant role—students who can recognise and manage their own emotions, as well as understand the emotions of others, are more likely to build strong friendships (Goleman, 1995).

Additionally, confident body language, active listening, and a sense of humour contribute to likeability (Sandstrom & Cillessen, 2006). Unlike those who seek popularity through exclusion or social manipulation, genuinely well-liked students create a sense of belonging in their peer groups.

Educators and parents can encourage these positive social skills by fostering environments that value kindness, cooperation, and emotional intelligence, ultimately helping students develop meaningful and lasting relationships.

References

• Cillessen, A. H., & Mayeux, L. (2004). Sociometric status and peer group behavior. New Directions for Child and Adolescent Development, 2004(103), 3-20.
• Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Bantam Books.
• Sandstrom, M. J., & Cillessen, A. H. (2006). Likeable versus popular: Distinct implications for adolescent adjustment. International Journal of Behavioral Development, 30(4), 305-314.
• Wentzel, K. R. (2003). Sociometric status and adjustment in middle school: A longitudinal study. The Journal of Early Adolescence, 23(1), 5-28.

Nikki Townsend

Recently, our Year 3 students visited the Royal Show’s Rural Discovery precinct—a wonderful initiative designed to bridge the gap between city and country life. Students were immersed in a hands-on exploration of rural industries and the important role they play in our daily lives. From watching a live sheep-shearing demonstration to learning how cows are milked and trying their hand at picking and packaging strawberries, our students gained an appreciation for the hard work and processes behind the food we eat and the materials we use. These experiences helped build an awareness for the students about where products come from and highlighted the interconnectedness between urban and rural communities.

Similarly, our Year 1 students recently experienced an enriching excursion to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Surrounded by native Australian wildlife, they were able to apply what they’ve been learning in science about living things and their habitats. Seeing, hearing, and even gently touching some of the animals gave context and meaning to the content they’d explored in class. These kinds of experiences build vocabulary, deepen comprehension, and make abstract concepts more tangible and memorable.

In addition to excursions, guest speakers also play a vital role in enhancing our academic program. This week, students from Years 1 to 6 had the exciting opportunity to hear from renowned Australian author Jacqueline Harvey. With warmth and humour, she shared her poem that featured all her characters, her inspiration for picture books and her latest book, The Ghost and the Girl. Her storytelling captivated students and brought the world of her characters vividly to life.

For a group of keen Jacqueline Harvey readers, the experience extended even further through participation in a writing workshop. These budding young writers explored the craft of storytelling, gaining valuable insight into the writing process, character development, and how to generate ideas. Being mentored by a published author was not only inspiring—it also gave students a deeper appreciation for the creativity and discipline involved in writing a book.

Incorporating excursions and guest speakers into the curriculum supports the development of curious, confident learners who see their world as a rich source of knowledge. These experiences encourage students to ask questions, think critically, and understand different perspectives—skills that are central to lifelong learning.

Angela Drysdale

1. Feed the Flu 

Grapefruit, kiwifruit, mandarins, and oranges are all in season over winter. Try including fruit at breakfast if you don’t already and add an extra serving of vegetables to each main meal. Broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower are great winter vegetables to feature too.

2. Sleep it off

Give the body ample time to rest and recharge. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep each night. A small change like shifting bedtimes forward by an hour could make a big difference to energy levels and the ability to fight the flu while giving young brains important ‘downtime’ to process and store the information it receives during the day.

3. Get active, even if indoors 

As the mornings and nights get cooler, outdoor play can be less appealing. Find ways to keep the body moving such as dance, yoga, indoor sports and more. Physical activity releases feel-good chemicals into the body, like endorphins and serotonin. Staying active will give general health and wellbeing a significant boost.

4. Rug up 

Keep an eye on the daily forecast and prepare for the cold with layers. Singlets under the midi, scarves and even tights can add an extra layer of warmth on colder days. Ensure that your daughter has a named jumper so that she can rug up or remove the layer as needed. If you are new to the school and need to stock up on winter uniform pieces, the School Supplies Shop has you covered.

5. Vitamin C, D and H₂O

While vaccinations and medications have their place, getting an injection of good vitamins and minerals from your diet, embracing our winter sun and staying hydrated throughout the day are crucial pieces of the wellness puzzle. They contribute to a healthy body, but also a settled, calm and nurtured mind.

We look forward to enjoying a busy but exciting last few weeks of term with Grandparents Day, Camp, Community and Care Week featuring Under 8s Week and the Year 3 Day Camp, Year 5 Camp and Canberra still to come.

Annette Box

Congratulations to our two Music Captains, Nadia and Kate, who gave beautiful solo performances on the piano and alto saxophone respectively. For the first time we also included a composition written by Year 10 student Charlotte. It was wonderful to hear her creativity! We were also very privileged to have Meleia Richardson (’21) as guest performer at the event who wowed the audience with her performances of On My Own and Defying Gravity. The evening concluded with a special performance of The Prayer which brought together all musicians and staff. Special thanks must go to all our music conductors/staff, stage crew and the Music Support Group for their outstanding efforts in ensuring the evening was a great success. Congratulations to all students on their dedication and passion which resulted in such wonderful performances!

Choir Performance

Thank you to Serenata (Years 2 and 3 Choir) and their conductor Ms Brennan for their musical contribution to the Sorry Day Assembly. Serenata performed two songs Parrwang Lifts the Sky and Reconciliation Song with both pieces contributing in a meaningful way to the special assembly. Their performances were very much appreciated by everyone in attendance.

Music Support Group

The next Music Support Group meeting will be held on Tuesday 3 June 2025 at 5:00pm in the Circular Drive Classroom 01 (in front of the Arts Centre Foyer). Parents from both the Primary and Secondary school are welcome to attend.

Brad King

Our team was led by 2025 Captains, Phoebe and Abby, who throughout the season and on the day provided fantastic role modelling in their efforts and leading by example. Thank you also to the Year 8 and Year 10 cohorts and staff as well as the Dragonettes for bringing the Maggies spirit and lifting our Cross Country team to some great results.

The age group placings were as follows:

• 12 years & under – 3^rd place
• 13 years – 5^th place
• 14 years – 6^th place
• 15 years – 6^th place
• 16 years – 5^th place
• 17 & over – 4^th place

Aggregate Cup – 5^th Place overall (just shy of 4^th place by 1.5 points!)

Percentage Cup – 3^rd Place overall

Individually, St Margaret’s witnessed some outstanding performances on the day with many students finishing with personal bests.

Individual top 10 finishers:

13 years – Charlotte R (3^rd)

15 years – Georgiana R (10^th)

17 years –Charli S (3^rd)

Thank you to our 2025 Cross Country staff, led by Head of Athletics and Development, Mr Josh Partridge and his group of dedicated coaches. The wet weather of late, although not ideal for all the additional muddy shoes and clothes washing, has been an opportunity for some great practice meets including our own meet shared with Clayfield College.  

A big thank you to parents and caregivers for your help throughout the season getting your daughters to early morning training and collecting them from practice meets and/or supporting their efforts on the weekend. And a special shout out to the parent support group for all their efforts throughout the season. It’s really appreciated.

QGSSSA Winter Sport Season (Hockey, Netball, Tennis, Volleyball)

Trials and training details for all Winter sports are now available on the POD. Trials for all sports will commence in Week 7 of this term and trainings will commence the following week.

The POD - Secondary Hockey

The POD - Secondary Netball

The POD - Secondary Tennis

The POD - Secondary Volleyball

We are happy to recognise the outstanding achievements and representation of students participating at a national level, outside of the school sport pathway. I look forward to continuing to hear from our community regarding such outstanding achievement. Please email me via awilliams@stmargarets.qld.edu.au

Latest Sport News and Information

For the latest sport news and information please check out the following Secondary School Sport POD Pages:

• Basketball (Autumn Sport) - (The POD - Secondary Basketball (stmargarets.qld.edu.au)
• Soccer (Autumn Sport) - (The POD - Secondary Football (stmargarets.qld.edu.au)
• Touch Football (Autumn Sport) - (The POD - Secondary Touch Football (stmargarets.qld.edu.au)
• Cross Country - (The POD - Secondary Cross Country (stmargarets.qld.edu.au)

• Club Netball - (The POD - Club Netball (stmargarets.qld.edu.au)
• Rhythmic Gymnastics – (The POD - Secondary Rhythmic Gymnastics (stmargarets.qld.edu.au)
• Rowing - (The POD - Secondary Rowing (stmargarets.qld.edu.au)

Anne Louise Williams

This year, in our 130^th year, as we celebrate the incredible legacy of the past 130 years of educating girls, we also look to the future and imagine the possibilities it can bring. This Giving Day, your kindness and generosity has set our next chapter in motion. Together we have helped St Margaret’s thrive for the next 130 years.

And today, members of our community are still kindly joining in online and giving with our total raised this morning as I write this sitting at $1,215,404.

Whether you supported the realisation of our new masterplan, or you gave to the Panama Fund to support financial needs-based bursaries, your gift will have lasting impact. Your gift is her future.

We are deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in us. With a community like ours, the next 130 years are already off to a powerful start.

It truly was a whole community effort, and we thank each and every one of our 528 donors for your wonderful support.

A special thank you to our Matching Donors, who quadrupled donations right through to the completion of our bonus round goal. We would also like to acknowledge the amazing efforts of our students who danced off, held coin drives, sausage sizzles, bake sales and manned the phones to help us spread the word about Giving Day far and wide.

Thank you to all of you who donated on the day. We are so grateful for your support. Our ambitious goal was no match for the St Margaret’s spirit! We could not have done it without you.

Professional Women’s Network Breakfast – with guest speaker Amanda Lacaze ('76), CEO and MD of Lynas Rare Earths

Join us for a thought-provoking breakfast with Amanda Lacaze (’76), a trailblazing executive at the forefront of critical minerals and future technologies. Named as one of The Australian Financial Review’s Business People of the Year, and recognised as 2018 CEO of the Year by MiningNews.Net, Amanda leads one of the world’s most strategically significant resources companies—Lynas Rare Earths.

With rare earths at the heart of the global shift toward electric vehicles, renewable energy and defence technology, Amanda will share how Lynas is positioning itself as a leading player in the critical minerals market, as well as lessons in leadership and resilience from her rise to the helm of a global company.

Date:         Wednesday 11 June 2025
Time:         6.45am arrival for 7.00am - 8.45am
Location:   Arts Centre Foyer, St Margaret's Anglican Girls School, 11 Petrie Street, Ascot
Format:     Sit down breakfast with grab-and-go barista coffee on arrival. 
Tickets:     $85 Adult, $45 Student (Years 10-12/Tertiary)
Corporate tables: $850 (10 seats), includes company logo displayed on table and acknowledgement during event.

Tickets are available here: https://www.trybooking.com/CUSFP

We thank our series sponsors, Major Sponsor: Pitcher Partners. Supporting Sponsors: Wolff Coffee Roasters, Clear Insurance, The Bathhouse Albion and Resource Innovations.

Lara Pickering