eNews Archive Issue 17 - 5 June 2025

“Families teach us love, and tribes teach us loyalty. The village teaches us tolerance”.

- Derek Thompson

“My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.”

- Desmond Tutu

“Being curious about other people; disagreeing without poisoning relationships; revealing vulnerability at an appropriate pace; being a good listener; knowing how to ask for and offer forgiveness; knowing how to host a gathering where everyone feels embraced; knowing how to see things from another’s point of view.”

[David Brooks, 2023]

Schools are communities that can thrive when all its members are committed to civility and a sense of civic responsibility. They are very much group environments. Timetable and staffing ratios always mean that students are always in groups (Form class; Academic Advising groups; subject classes; house groups; year level groups) and although all students need to be seen and differentiation can occur, all students need to be conscious of the group and those around them.

This is where the two very important questions of the St Margaret’s Way come in. The first question – How do I want to feel every day when I come to school? – and then the civic accountability question – What am I doing to ensure others can feel this way?

What prompted me to write about this was that I just read about some of the reaction to the big universities in the United States using Civility Portfolios to assess enrolment applications. It led me to consider the purpose of a school. It is not so narrow that it is all about results. It is definitely about education and a significant part of that purpose must be helping to produce active and good citizens. Having standards of behaviour and consequences when maturing people fall short of expectation because they focus on the first question of St Margaret’s Way and not the second question is important, and all members of our community have signed up to those standards. That is why an enrolment at St Margaret’s is sought after by many.

Thank you for everything you do in accord with the St Margaret’s Way and for supporting the school’s values and the standards that we strive to uphold every day. Of course, schools are intensely human places, and as humans we can sometimes make mistakes and fall short of what is expected, but that does not mean we should not be continually vigilant in our relationships with others and highly aspirational in our civic responsibilities.

Tuckshop Update

We are looking forward to launching the Canopy Cafe to students next Tuesday 10 June. To accommodate staff training and the transition from our temporary tuckshop in M's Cafe to the new cafeteria, there will be no tuckshop operating next Monday 9 June. Please refer to communications sent via The POD for more details. 

Ros Curtis

Here are a few ways you can support your daughter during this time:

1. Encourage Routine and Balance
Help your daughter establish a consistent study routine that includes breaks, physical activity, and time for relaxation. A balanced schedule supports both academic focus and emotional wellbeing.

2. Create a Supportive Environment
A quiet, organised space for study can make a big difference. Encourage open conversations about how she’s feeling and remind her that it’s okay to ask for help—whether from teachers, peers, or family.

3. Promote Healthy Habits
Good sleep, nutritious meals, and regular exercise are essential for concentration and stress management. Encourage your daughter to prioritise her health, especially during assessment weeks.

4. Focus on Effort, Not Just Outcomes
Celebrate the effort your daughter puts into her learning, regardless of the final result. This helps build a growth mindset and reduces pressure.

5. Stay Connected with the School
Keep an eye on assessment schedules and school communications. If you have concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your daughter’s teachers or Head of Year.

Above all, remind your daughter that she is not alone. The St Margaret’s community is here to support her every step of the way. With encouragement, structure, and care, she can approach this assessment period with confidence and pride.

Nicole Devlin

Members of the school community (students usually 14 years and above, staff, or family members) can be confirmed during this service.

As we progress through our teenage years, we take on more responsibility for our actions and become adult members of society. At this time, we are often moved to stand up for what we believe. Within the contemporary Anglican Christian tradition, this progression is marked by the sacrament of Confirmation. In this rite, adults and young adults confirm for themselves the promises which their parents and godparents made for them at their baptism. It is a more "public" declaration that they belong to the Church and a sign that they are taking personal responsibility for their faith.

The group of people to be confirmed make a formal statement of their faith before the Bishop, who serves as a representative of the universal Church. The Bishop then confirms each person individually. For those who have not been baptised and want to be confirmed, baptism can take place during the same service (prior to Confirmation).

If you wish to participate in Confirmation, please complete this form no later than Friday 26 July. If you have any queries, please phone me on 07 3862 0716 or email jdow@stmargarets.qld.edu.au.

Rev’d Jazz Dow

Each club has been thoughtfully designed by the senior girls to cater to a wide variety of interests, ensuring that every boarder finds a place to belong and thrive. It is also a great opportunity for boarders to connect across other year levels and it is a therapeutic outlet for our boarders. Here's a closer look at the vibrant clubs led by our seniors:

Arts and Craft Club
This club is a perfect club for the creative. From painting, beading to jewellery-making and seasonal decorations, younger boarders are encouraged to explore their imaginations and build confidence through hands-on projects. It’s a space where creativity flows, and quiet connections are made.

Run Club
For the girls who enjoy starting their mornings with energy and endorphins, the Run Club offers a supportive and motivating environment. The Year 11 leaders have set up a range of fun runs, and scenic jogs around the local areas each weekend. River runs, New Farm Park runs, and a sunset run at Southbank. It's about more than just fitness; it’s about mental clarity and allowing the girls to enjoy physical activity with their friends and seniors leading this group.

Keep Up to Date with the World Club
In an age of fast-moving news, this club encourages awareness and thoughtful discussion. Led by seniors with a passion for global affairs, the club meets fortnightly to explore current events, social issues, and global trends. Whether reading articles, watching news clips, or sharing fun facts to the boarding house, the aim is to keep everyone informed and up to date.

Book Club
Cosy and contemplative, the Book Club provides a haven for literary minds. Book Club isn’t just about reading, it is also an opportunity to explore beautiful libraries in Brisbane. The seniors in this club host little outings to visit these libraries and host ‘Book Week’ for the boarding house each year which is a lot of fun.

Baking Club
There’s nothing quite like the warmth of shared baking sessions to bring people together. With senior boarders leading the way in everything from cupcakes to cultural meals, the Baking Club is a space where flour-dusted aprons and laughter are part of the recipe.

Movie Club
Movie Club, often a weekend highlight, gives younger boarders the chance to unwind and bond with a little bit of popcorn. Each screening is carefully curated by senior students, who pair the films with fun themes, snacks, and post movie chats. Whether it’s a classic feel-good film or a new release, the club turns a simple night in into a cosy memory.

Wellness Club
Wellness Club is a club dedicated to nurturing the mind and the body. The seniors leading this club have voiced the importance of a holistic wellbeing. From yoga sessions, mindfulness breathing sessions, sunrise stretching classes on Circular Drive or simply sharing healthy tips. This club will offer sanctuary for some of our boarders and encourage a healthy balanced lifestyle. 

The student led clubs are more than just outside of school activities, they are platforms for leadership, creativity, physical activity and genuine community engagement within the boarding house.

Gracemere Mataia

Last Tuesday, we marked the significance of Sorry Day and Mabo Day at our assembly, with two of our Year 11 students, Polly and Andie sharing their research of the history of Reconciliation in Australia and their learnings. One of our RAP Student Co-Chairs, Frances, shared some of her personal story of what Reconciliation means to her and also how her experiences at St Margaret’s have changed her outlook on her future. A group of our First Nations students also shared a beautiful book, Walking Together, urging Australians to join in the journey of Reconciliation.

Throughout Week 5, students and staff contributed to our whole school artwork by writing what Reconciliation means to them on a coloured hand. The hands were then attached to a Reconciliation banner which was hung from the Toorak Bridge.

We also celebrated Jersey Thursday. Sport plays a significant role in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and can also play a significant role in reconciliation, bringing us together in shared interest. Students were encouraged to wear a jersey or team colours of their favourite team and participate in activities on Circular Drive during Year Level Assembly time. Activities included face painting, keyring making, fish weaving, hair braiding, tasting salty plums and dancing. Money raised on Jersey Thursday goes towards the Pay It Forward campaign, where Year 10 Yalari students from around Australia raise money to fund a scholarship for a Year 7 Yalari student. We extend our thanks to all of the staff who have helped support these activities. However, particular thanks and recognition must go to our First Nations students who have selflessly given their time and ideas, shared their stories and shown patience as they help us to learn alongside them.

“Prioritise your sleep and health to amplify your academic performance” – Charlotte Sutton, ’24

Caitlin McCluskey

Each assessment celebrates students’ accomplishments by providing opportunities for recognition. Every student will receive a printed certificate and an online result report. Top performers will be eligible for medals and are invited to attend special award ceremonies to have their academic excellence publicly recognised.

We encourage you to consider entering your child into ICAS this year. The dates and prices are below, and these can be purchased directly from the ICAS website.

Parent page link: https://shop.icasassessments.com/pages/parent-payment/XDF041

School access code: XDF041

Chris Dunn

1. Spend Quality Time Together

Consistent, meaningful interactions—whether through shared activities, conversations, or simply being present—help build trust and emotional security (Flouri & Buchanan, 2004). Fathers who engage in regular, positive interactions with their daughters foster a sense of belonging and support.

2. Show Emotional Support and Affection

Expressing love, encouragement, and active listening reinforces a daughter's sense of self-worth. Studies show that affectionate fathering leads to greater confidence and lower levels of anxiety in girls (Allgood, Beckert, & Peterson, 2012).

3. Encourage Independence and Resilience

Fathers who empower their daughters to take risks, solve problems, and develop independence contribute to their resilience and leadership skills. Research by Nielsen (2012) found that daughters with supportive fathers tend to be more assertive and goal-oriented.

4. Model Respectful and Healthy Relationships

Fathers set the standard for future relationships. Demonstrating kindness, respect, and healthy communication teaches daughters what to expect in friendships and romantic relationships (Sarkadi et al., 2008).

By fostering open communication, support, and trust, fathers help their daughters grow into confident, resilient, and emotionally secure individuals.

References

Allgood, S. M., Beckert, T. E., & Peterson, C. (2012). The role of father involvement in the development of self-confidence and self-reliance in adolescents. Child & Adolescent Social Work Journal, 29(6), 435-453.

Flouri, E., & Buchanan, A. (2004). Early father’s and mother’s involvement and child’s later educational outcomes. British Journal of Educational Psychology, 74(2), 141-153.

Lamb, M. E. (2010). The Role of the Father in Child Development. Wiley.

Nielsen, L. (2012). Father-daughter relationships: Contemporary research and issues. Routledge.

Sarkadi, A., Kristiansson, R., Oberklaid, F., & Bremberg, S. (2008). Fathers' involvement and children’s developmental outcomes: A systematic review of longitudinal studies. Acta Paediatrica, 97(2), 153-158.

Nikki Townsend

Next week will begin with a session led by a visiting dermatologist, who will speak about the importance of skin care. The discussion will challenge Years 5 and 6 students to think critically about the products they use, raising awareness of the risks of using skin care designed for older skin. It will be a valuable opportunity for students to analyse marketing messages, social media, ask thoughtful questions, and make informed decisions about their wellbeing. Parents of these girls may like to take the opportunity to discuss on Monday night, the information shared and review the beauty samples provided. Thank you to Melissa Manahan for generously giving her time for this important learning experience.

On Wednesday, Years 5 and 6 students will take part in an immersion experience in preparation for their upcoming camps in Week 9. During the immersion day each year level will be encouraged to apply critical thinking in different ways:

• Year 5 students will explore leadership, reflecting on what it means to lead with integrity and how each student can contribute positively to their camp community.
• Year 6 students will begin to examine the many venues and activities they will visit in Canberra, connecting what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world applications, that is curriculum in context. They are beginning to ask: What is the purpose of each visit? What questions do I want to explore? How does this experience link to who I am as a citizen?

These are just some of the many ways we are helping our students build the skills to think deeply, act responsibly, and make meaningful connections between themselves and the world around them.

At the end of next week, the primary school will come together to celebrate one of the most treasured days in our school calendar, our Grandparents, Godparents, and Parents Day.

This day is more than a celebration, it’s a meaningful opportunity to strengthen connections across generations, enrich student learning, and build community through shared experiences in performance, play, and purposeful learning.

When Grandparents and special guardians join us at school, they offer far more than company, they bring wisdom, encouragement, and perspective. These intergenerational moments help our students:

• Feel a deeper sense of belonging within the wider school and family community
• Build confidence by performing and sharing their learning in a meaningful context
• Appreciate lifelong learning, seeing that curiosity and knowledge span all ages
• Engage in joyful, purposeful play, which enhances social and emotional wellbeing
• Celebrate their own learning journey, with role models beside them

This year’s celebration will again include our Interhouse Verse Speaking Competition, ballgames, and a Book Fair. Thank you to Annette Box for her exceptional organisation of this day. These events showcase our students’ creativity, teamwork, and pride and are even more meaningful when shared with those who have helped shape their lives.

Everyone is looking forward to this special day.

Angela Drysdale

With a history spanning over 40 years, ICAS is an internationally recognised assessment program designed to extend students’ higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills. Developed by expert educators, the assessments provide students with quality questions that encourage the application of learning without the need for additional preparation or revision.

Participation in ICAS is optional, allowing students to opt in if they are interested in extending themselves academically and taking on the personal challenge of an international competition.

Students who participate will receive a printed certificate and an online results report. High achievers may also be awarded medals and invited to attend formal award ceremonies recognising their academic excellence.

This year, all ICAS Assessments will be conducted online, allowing for greater accessibility and faster result processing. The assessments will take place during school hours on the following dates:

• Writing – 6 August 2025 – $24.95
• English – 11 August 2025 – $20.95
• Science – 18 August 2025 – $20.95
• Mathematics – 25 August 2025 – $20.95

Parents are invited to register and pay for their daughter’s assessments through the ICAS Parent Payment System. To register, visit https://shop.icasassessments.com/pages/parent-payment/XDF041 and use the school access code XDF041.

Registrations close on Friday 26 July 2025.

We look forward to celebrating the achievements of our Years 3 to 6 students as they take part in this internationally acclaimed academic challenge.

Kate Frewin

Upcoming Performances – Date Claimers

Please note there will be some special performances occurring on Circular Drive early in Term 3:

• Friday 1 August 9:00am – 10:00am Winter Wonders!

  This is a performance provided by primary students involved in the Strings and Band immersion program (Years 3 and 4 Strings, Year 5 Band). Our Years 3,4 and 5 students are very keen to showcase what they have been learning in class. The morning will also include some special staff performances!

• Saturday 2 August 12:30pm – 4:30pm Soaring Upwards Festival

  All larger ensembles will perform at this special event on Circular Drive. Parents are encouraged to come and support the girls as they showcase their musical talents. The afternoon will also include some wonderful, combined ensemble performances. Food and drink options will also be made available during the afternoon, kindly organised by the Music Support Group. A performance schedule will be made available soon.

• Tuesday 5 August 2:00pm – 3:20pm Ponytail Project Performances

Our Rock Bands and Dance Groups will perform to our students on Circular Drive. This is always an exciting afternoon of music that our students all look forward to!

Music Support Group

The next Music Support Group meeting will be held on Tuesday 22 July 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 the 2025 Life Saving Captains Abigail and Lucy who throughout the season and on the day supported the coaches and students to produce some great results. Thank you, Abby and Lucy!

As well as the overall team win, there were some fantastic individual performances with several students bringing home individual medals. In the overall individual rankings for girls, we had two students in the top five. Congratulations to Phoebe J (#3) and Edie J (#5).

This year will mark the end of an era for St Margaret’s Life Saving with our lead coach, Sue Baxter-Winch announcing her retirement. Sue has been our lead coach for the past 23 years and has come back year after year supporting the students to learn lifesaving skills and techniques as well as encouraging the girls with her enthusiasm for the life saving movement. We thank Sue and her family for the support of life saving here at St Margaret’s. The life saving program will be back in 2026 and we look forward to continuing this tradition at the school.

Congratulations to Eadie M in Year 12 who has recently been selected to compete in the FEI Endurance World Championships for Young Riders and Juniors. This competition will take place in Romania from 20 September 2025.

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 at 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:

• Hockey The POD - Secondary Hockey
• Tennis The POD - Secondary Tennis
• Volleyball The POD - Secondary Volleyball
• 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

Student Free Day - 20 June

We wish to advise that the Supplies Shop will be closed on the Student Free Day on Friday 20 June as we will be partaking in compulsory staff training on this day.

Winter items

Winter stock has now arrived so please call in to avoid missing out on your preferred sizes. 

• Formal jumper – both poly/cotton and wool/nylon
• Pre-Prep/Prep fleecy tracksuit
• School tracksuit jacket and pants
• School scarf
• Winter tights – St Margaret’s brown

Blazer Pocket Embroidery

Blazers that require pocket embroidery must be submitted by morning tea on a Thursday. Pocket embroidery takes approximately two to three weeks prior to being returned to the Supplies Shop from collection. 

Student Card Purchases - Flexischools daily limit

Please ensure the daily limit is set high enough to cover the cost of the uniform items being purchased. We will not be able to complete the purchase if there are insufficient funds available on the student card.

Please refer to the Information Guide (PDF 510.1KB) for full booking terms and conditions. We are unable to accept bookings via email or text message. Please read the information guide carefully as some information has changed. OSHC Registration and Debitsuccess can be completed via the My Family Lounge.

PLEASE COMPLETE YOUR VACATION CARE BOOKING VIA THE MY FAMILY LOUNGE CASUAL BOOKING CALENDAR

How do I make a booking?

Please navigate to the link below and either sign in with your existing My Family Lounge account or Register for an account, if you do not already have one. Please note that all enrolment forms and payment methods must be completed before making a booking. 

When making a Vacation Care booking, please select the Casual bookings calendar, not Permanent.

https://www.qkenhanced.com.au/Account/Embeddable/?databaseId=9385

What is the cost?*

Fees: $75 per day*

Bookings close: 13 June 2025

*Incursions and excursions incur additional costs. These are compulsory for all students and therefore you are able to claim CCS.

What are the hours of operation?

The service is open from 7:00am until 6:00pm.

How can I obtain more information?

If you would like further information regarding our OSHC Program or if you would like to make a booking, feel free to contact me on 0423 547 653 or email: oshc@stmargarets.qld.edu.au.

Further Information

Please note changes to your booking will still need to be made in writing. All enquiries should be directed to Palu Ingram, OSHC Coordinator on 0423 547 653 or oshc@stmargarets.qld.edu.au.

Palu Ingram

The girls were met with some rainy weather on their journey but overall, they thoroughly enjoyed the hike and the opportunity to use their map reading skills, plot the course, check their bearings and prepare their own meals.

Many thanks to the Barambah staff, Ben and Nel, for hosting the group.

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) – on sale till Thursday
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.

St Margaret’s Rowing invites you to Cocktails on the Creek

The St Margaret's Rowing Support Group invites the St Margaret's community to a night of Cocktails on the Creek.

The event provides parents, past students and friends of the rowing community and school with an opportunity to come together, celebrate and raise important funds for the benefit of our students, both current and future.

Can't attend the event? This year we are giving everyone an option to buy a virtual ticket so they can support the event even if they can't make it in person.

Date:                                    Saturday 14 June 2025
Time:                                    7.00pm to 10.00pm
Venue:                                 St Margaret's Boat Shed, Sandgate Road, Albion

Tickets:                                $75 in person; $50 virtual
Tickets available here:   https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1401898

Please note: Cocktails on the Creek tickets are non-refundable after Thursday 12th June 5pm.

We thank our 2025 Rowing Sponsors: Major Sponsors – Torque Toyota, Northshore Group and Yabbr; Supporting Sponsors - Riverside Marine and Alfred E Chave; Maggies Supporters - Henzell Real Estate and Ethos Orthodontics.

St Margaret’s Secondary Father Daughter Breakfast – Ticket sales closing soon

Students in Years 7-12 and their fathers are warmly invited to join us for the St Margaret’s Secondary Father Daughter Breakfast, hosted by the P&F Association.

We understand that it is not possible for all girls to invite their fathers. Girls are welcome to invite a relative or family friend. Boarders are welcome to 'adopt a dad' for the event.

Ticket sales to this event will close on Thursday 12 June and we have a few tickets left!    

Date:     Thursday 19 June 2025
Time:    6.45am for 7am- 8am
Venue:  Circular Drive and Arts Centre Terraces
Cost:    $49 per adult /$39 per student (Years 7-12).

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

Lara Pickering