Haileybury students achieve exceptional results in NAPLAN tests, outperforming national averages in reading, writing, and numeracy. This success is due to our use of evidence-based explicit teaching and phonics methods, which have proven more effective than older approaches. These strong results highlight Haileybury's commitment to academic excellence and the support of its dedicated staff and families.
Haileybury students have access to a huge range of opportunities in the co-curricular space including performing arts, creative arts, sport and our many experiential learning programs. But underpinning everything we do is a focus on core academic development, so students have the knowledge and skills to thrive in their post school environment.
We have now received the final 2024 National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) data for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 this year. Haileybury students’ results are extraordinarily strong across all four year levels and all five domains — reading, writing, spelling, grammar and numeracy.
The national, state and territory results were released last week by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority*. The debate has continued to focus on the fact that around one-third of all Australian students are not meeting proficiency for all year levels. This is deeply troubling.
In reading and writing this is in part because of the 30 plus year failure of the whole language approach to reading which was pushed and promoted by university education faculties. As Julie Hare noted in The Australian Financial Review on 17 August 2024, “It seems bizarre, almost unbelievable in fact, that universities have for at least four decades been peddling a baseless theory of early literacy and reading — the whole-word approach — that has undermined the educational attainment of millions of children and sabotaged many adulthoods.”
Twenty years ago, the evidence of this failure was already strong, and it was in 2008 when Haileybury rolled out the explicit teaching, phonics model in all our primary school classrooms.
It is unfortunate that several generations of Australian primary school students have missed the opportunity to learn through the evidence-based practice of explicit teaching and phonics. It is pleasing that finally, this year, every state and territory has agreed that this is the approach that should be followed.
Haileybury students have been fortunate to have the benefit of this approach followed by the brilliant teaching staff and it is why students are achieving between two to three years above the Australian national average in all year levels and domains.
An example of this is Year 3 Reading where the Haileybury student average is 513 compared to the national average of 404.2. The Australian Year 5 Reading average is 492. Thus Haileybury Year 3 students are well above the national Year 5 average. Haileybury Year 5s scored 582 which is well above the Year 7 national average of 535.
Two examples from numeracy reveal Haileybury’s Year 7 number score was 644 compared to the national Year 7 average of 539. The Year 9 Australian number average was 565.3 and Haileybury Year 9 students average was 675.
These are extraordinary results for Haileybury students and give them the core foundational skills and knowledge in literacy and numeracy to enable them to succeed in their further studies and after they leave school.
That Haileybury students achieve so well is the result of a focused program using evidence-based practices, outstanding teaching, committed students and great support from families. Congratulations to the whole Haileybury community.
*Disclosure: Haileybury CEO | Principal Derek Scott is also the Chair of ACARA.
Derek Scott
CEO | Principal
Sport offers all kinds of ways to boost our wellbeing in the most holistic sense — from mental health and building resilience, to developing social skills, teamwork and trying new activities.
This is especially true for young people who are still at school. At Haileybury, we see sport as a natural extension of the development that takes place in the classroom, and encourage parents and students alike to see sporting activities as not only a means of competition or physical development, but as a way to grow as a person too.
With the Olympic Games underway and Term 3 in full swing, here is a closer look at some of the benefits that come with saying “yes” to sport.
Taking part in sport at any age and any level of competition can deliver great benefits to our mental, emotional and social wellbeing, while improving our physical health as well. Physical activities have been shown to release endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters, which can alleviate emotions like anxiety and depression. Taking part in sport can also improve a young person’s sense of inclusivity and self-esteem, as they feel the sense of accomplishment that comes from taking part, physically moving and maybe even scoring a win or two.
“As your child grows and becomes more skilled, sport provides many opportunities that assist in developing their confidence, sense of satisfaction and accomplishment which are essential to wellbeing.”Neringa Smith, Haileybury Director of Counselling Services
Sport is a vital part of the Haileybury experience, with students encouraged to discover the kinds of team sports and physical activities that excite and motivate them most. While playing sport is a rewarding experience in itself, we also see first-hand how the benefits of sport extend to the classroom too.
Physical activity has been linked to improved sleep, concentration, memory and cognitive function, which can translate to better academic performance. The discipline and focus students learn through sports can help them to develop a strong work ethic and manage time effectively. Sports also provide a productive outlet for all the energy that comes with being a young person, which can support students to stay engaged with their academic activities when they are in the classroom and feel less stressed about exams, assessments and homework.
Diane Furusho, Deputy Principal of Student Wellbeing, sees sport as a great way to build relationships with your peers and work well within a structured environment. “Following the rules of sport can relate to following rules in the classroom,” she says.
Teamwork, connection and collaboration are all vital aspects of the school experience, and students can all experience them firsthand by taking part in team sports. They foster a sense of community and belonging as young people learn to work together towards a common goal.
This collaborative environment helps develop essential social skills such as communication, empathy, leadership and conflict resolution. Being part of a team also instils a sense of responsibility and accountability, as each member must contribute to the team’s success. These experiences can build lasting friendships and a support network that extends beyond the sports field.
For many students, particularly those taking part in sport at a competitive level, the pressures of navigating the demands of both their sport and their education might be challenging. Parents can play a crucial role in supporting their children as they navigate the pressures of performing at their peak in all kinds of ways, so they can still experience all the positive benefits to their wellbeing.
Neringa recommends, “Helping with organisation and setting priorities, and having some flexibility regarding priorities. Sometimes sport training or competition may take priority, and at other times study and school may need to take priority.”
She also recognises the importance of taking time to recharge. “Acknowledge that they may not be able to give 100% to everything at the same time, especially once they reach Years 11 and 12 — they may need to prioritise,” she says. “Teach your young person to notice signs of when they are starting to reach their limit with commitments. Noticing these signs when they have reached 80–90% of their limit is important, before they are exhausted.”
Open communication is key, so that young people feel comfortable to share any feelings of stress they are experiencing. Together, you can work out a more balanced approach to time management, prioritising tasks and setting goals. Haileybury’s brilliant teachers and coaching staff are all on-hand to support you and your young person with striking a healthy balance as well.
Playing sport at a more high-performing, competitive level is not for everyone. However, that does not mean young people should miss out on the wellbeing benefits that come with getting active, getting out there and having a go. Instead, parents can encourage their children to focus on having fun, teamwork and bonding, and personal growth rather than competition.
You might consider introducing your young person to a variety of activities, such as swimming, cycling, or dance, so that they can find what they enjoy most. If they are still curious about team sports, focus on the social side of joining a team, rather than the pressure of being chosen for a certain sport at a competitive level.
Ultimately, parents should try to create a positive and fun environment around sport and physical activity, where it is okay to try something and not like it, or feel disappointed for not excelling right away. It takes time to settle into something new and develop skills — and the novelty of playing the game should not be lost along the way.
Taking part in sports with your young person is a great opportunity to connect with them over a shared interest, while setting a positive example. These shared activities provide an opportunity for quality time, fostering open communication and providing encouragement if your child is lacking confidence when playing a certain sport. Parents can also model healthy behaviours like navigating stress and setbacks, while promoting a more active lifestyle for the whole family.
“It is great for parents to play sport with their children,” says Diane.
“Parents can lead by example and show that they value being active as well. It’s also just fun — and it’s important to do fun activities together as a family.”Diane Furusho, Haileybury Deputy Principal of Student Wellbeing
Sport is a central part of life at Haileybury and an important avenue for developing social connections, resilience and wellbeing. With the arrival of the 2024 Paris Olympics, students and staff alike are even more excited and inspired to get active, team up and strive to do their best. All students in Middle School and Senior School are currently taking part in compulsory winter sport, which includes activities such as netball, rugby, soccer, swimming and tennis.
The spring sport program is all set to follow afterwards, offering sports like athletics and water polo. That way, they will continue to experience and enjoy the holistic wellbeing benefits of taking to the court, the field, the track or the pool all year round.
You can discover more about Haileybury’s Sports program here.
A huge well done to the cast, crew and creative team of Middle School Newlands for their outstanding production of Puffs. The show was a resounding success, showcasing the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. The audience was treated to a delightful performance that offered a fresh, comedic take on the magical world we all know and love. The energy and enthusiasm on stage were palpable, making it a memorable experience for all who attended. Congratulations on a job well done!
Our Theatre Studies class recently had the unique opportunity to witness the powerful reinterpretation of Macbeth (An Undoing) at Malthouse Theatre. This bold production, which delves into the complex dynamics between Lady Macbeth and Macbeth, offers a fresh perspective on the classic play. To deepen their understanding, students also participated in an exclusive workshop led by Tim Paige, an experienced Shakespearean director, actor and presenter. The workshop provided invaluable insights into the art of Shakespearean performance, allowing students to explore the text in new and exciting ways. The students also attended a Q&A after the show.
Our drama and theatre students recently had the unique opportunity to engage with Mine, a new Australian play, through an exciting incursion. The play’s writers brought the production to us, allowing students to experience it in an intimate in-the-round setting. Following the performance, students participated in a workshop with the writers, where they had the chance to help workshop and refine some of the scenes. This hands-on experience not only deepened their understanding of the play’s themes but also offered them invaluable insights into the creative process behind developing a new work. The collaboration sparked meaningful discussions and allowed students to contribute their own perspectives to the evolving narrative.
Nick Waxman
Head of Drama and Theatre Studies
In the last few weeks of Term 2 the Music Department was immersed in a variety of concerts and performances involving a significantly large number of students. As always, our music staff were ever present, moving equipment, guiding and inspiring.
The Junior School String program is the foundation block upon which the Haileybury Music Department is built, and it is always exciting and fulfilling to witness the musical development of so many of these student as they thrive and flourish through Junior and Middle Schools and into the Senior School. Each campus hosted its own Junior String Recital where our Year 2s, Super Strings and Scrolls provided the soundtrack to David Walliams’ picture book Grannysaurus. It was a remarkable feat to play from memory for 40 minutes. This was the first concert for our Year 2 students and they are already preparing for a combined concert in Aikman Hall in Term 4 featuring the entire Year 2 cohort — a spectacle not to be missed!
Large, appreciative audiences were entertained by our Middle School Concert series when a plethora of dynamic large ensembles performed. All campus concerts were delightfully different in structure and repertoire, yet all shared the same joie de vivre. We are so proud of the students for their enthusiasm and dedication and for the musical maturity and expression they bring to their ensembles.
Aria Night was the first major event for Term 3 when nine vocal soloists brought class and poise to their Arias and Art Songs in a celebration of one of the highest art forms. Glitter, grandeur and glamour interspersed with works by grand master composers such as Bernstein, Schubert, Mozart and Vaughan Williams produced items that were equally impressive and professional. Outstanding renditions from a staff vocal quartet and Haileybury Singers brought the evening to a triumphant close. The three prize winners — Lucy, Alexis, and Santrix — now have the opportunity to perform live on 3MBS Radio.
Amongst myriad of assembly performances, Chapel Concerts, Performance Seminars and soirées we have two more large upcoming music events in Term 3:
The Annual Concert on 28 August at 7.00 pm will be presented by our senior ensembles and as always you are guaranteed an evening of eclectic and musically diverse styles including works by Sondheim, Britten, Ray Charles, Villoldo and Rossini. This will also be an opportunity to celebrate our Year 12 students and thank them for their contribution to Haileybury music in what will be one of their final school performances.
Please also join us on 2 or 3 September at Count’s, Monash University for Jazz Night. Enjoy dinner or a drink and be immersed in the energetic vigour and colours of Stage Band and jazz combos from all four campuses.
Thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you at a music event very soon.
Wendy Dwyer and Myfanwy Bramble
Heads of Haileybury Music
Our Haileybury Units 1 and 2 Visual Communication Design students attended a Top Designs excursion to gather inspiration for their own folios.
They participated in a product design workshop at Monash University (Caulfield) where they explored the design process to solve a problem and create a design solution. Using a range of materials, they built models and presented their ideas to the class for feedback. Students were given the opportunity to visit the Monash Art Design and Architecture (MADA) workshop and saw laser cutters and 3D printers in action as well as a range of models and prototypes.
It was a great day exploring the world of design and embracing creative thinking.
Ngaire Thomson
Head of Visual Arts Senior School
Jessie (Year 11), the Pipe Sergeant of the A Band of Haileybury Pipes & Drums, delivered an outstanding performance at the Victorian Solo Piping Championships on Saturday, 27 July 2024. The event, held at the Presbyterian Ladies College campus, saw Jessie dominate the competition in C Grade with straight firsts across all three light music elements, triumphing against seven other competitors. Her exceptional skill earned her the title of Overall C Grade Victorian Champion, a prestigious honour accompanied by the Clan McLennan Perpetual Shield and a $250 prize donated by Clan McLennan. In addition to this remarkable achievement, Jessie was awarded a set of MacCallum bagpipes — what a way to wrap up the solo piping season!
Dylan (Year 3) also represented Haileybury at the championships in the Novice grade. Although he did not advance to the finals, Dylan played exceptionally well, demonstrating his growing talent and dedication to the craft. As the youngest in the Novice grade, he showed incredible promise in his future piping. The achievements of both Jessie and Dylan at the Victorian Solo Championships highlight the continued excellence of Haileybury’s Pipes & Drums program. The students now look forward to their mid-year camp coming up this August.
Lincoln Hilton
Director, Pipes & Drums
As we move through to the end of the year, our transition programs are commencing across the campus. We have many opportunities for our families and students to find out more about the next stage of schooling they are entering.
The Middle School Heads and Deputy Heads of Year 7 hosted our current Year 6 families on Tuesday, 13 August to discuss what the second stage of Middle School looks like for our students.
Our Pre-prep families had the opportunity on Wednesday, 14 August to meet the Head of Junior School, Ms Jodie McInnes and visit the Prep classrooms. They were able to see the explicit model of teaching and our impressive Prep students in action.
Thank you to the families who joined us at each of these two events.
As part of the transition into Middle School, our Year 4 students meet with staff in Year 5 and spend time in the spaces they will move into. The Middle School Heads and Deputy Heads of Year 5 will also host a parent session on Tuesday, 15 October at 4.00 pm to discuss that move between Junior School to Middle School for our current families.
The ELC students will commence their orientation program for Prep in Term 4 and families will be advised of dates as they draw closer.
Our ELC Orientation Day for those students entering Reception or Pre-prep classes in 2025 is being held on Saturday, 23 October. Parents and children are invited to spend time in their new environment with staff.
We will host a Middle School information session on Monday, 18 November for all families to hear about the Middle School journey.
UpDay for all students is set for Tuesday, 19 November. Students from Prep through to Year 8, 2025, spend the day in their new year level meeting new faces, familiarising themselves with new spaces, and in some cases being introduced to new subjects and teachers.
We have a fabulous roundabout system within our gates and encourage parents to utilise the South Road entrance for drop off and pick up. Some congestion is created when families are attempting to pick up along South Road, rather than at the roundabout within the School.
I remind families to avoid blocking both lanes on South Road when attempting to join the queue entering the School property and to please avoid double parking along South Road waiting for your child/ren to appear. There is a bike lane that is being blocked when this happens.
We thank our families for being considerate of the parking signs in our surrounding streets and respectful of our neighbours’ properties. The safety of our students is paramount and when they are unable to be picked up at the curb, as cars are parked, it can be dangerous.
The front of the School on South Road is a two-minute ‘kiss and go’ zone, hence parents should not be leaving their cars unattended.
The Pre-prep children have been invited to share a special afternoon tea in small groups with Ms Veale each week in her office. This is a lovely opportunity for conversation and connection to build language skills and relationships. Ms Veale is capturing the child’s voice to gather ideas and suggestions about the ELC learning spaces and experiences.
“Ms Veale wants to have afternoon tea with us because we’re good kids, we’re special, and she loves us.”
“We drink real life tea and talk. It makes me happy.”
“We had lemon myrtle tea – it was yummy.”
“The best part was having the tea. It made me feel lucky.”
“It was fun because there was music, and we talked.”
Reception have commenced their literacy program, focusing on individual sounds and letters, with many opportunities for intentional and incidental learning experiences to assist the children with phonics, aural discrimination, phonemic awareness, oral language and writing.
Pre-prep finished the end of Semester 1 with Milo’s birthday party, celebrating the completion of all sounds, letters and some diagraphs. They have recently been looking at golden words, revisiting sounds and letters, and exploring blending.
“We learn new letters and diagraphs. Diagraphs are two letters that make a sound, like th and ph. I like learning things that start with diagraphs and letters, so we can learn to write, learn to make words and learn to read.”
The Junior School inducted their Semester 2 House Leaders in an assembly steeped in tradition. Welcomed by the Pipes & Drums band, the next round of young leaders accepted their badges and committed to the pledge given by current Middle School captains, Levi and Tilly. Part of their leadership journey is giving back to the Junior School community by running recess and lunchtime clubs. Posters can be found in classrooms with the schedule. There is something for everyone, from sandcastle building to basketball games.
“As a House Captain, I’m mostly looking forward to running clubs and helping others if they fall.”Atlanta
“I’m looking forward to speaking at assembly because I haven’t done it before, and I can’t wait to stand at the lectern and speak into the microphone.”Stirling
“As a House Captain, I can’t wait to run assemblies so I can work on my confidence to speak in front of a crowd.”Scarlett
“I can’t wait to speak at assemblies, I think that will be quite fun.”Pippa
“I’m running the Sandcastle Club and I’m hoping to see new and exciting designs of sandcastles. I’m also doing the Oval Ball Games, and my goal is to see children improving their ball skills.”Oscar
The 100th day of formal education is a huge milestone to hit for the child, the parent and the teacher. We celebrated this year with the theme ‘100 Days Brighter’ and started the day with a parade through East Quad to the clapping and cheering of the Junior School. The day was filled with activities and celebrations. Our Preps have become great carers, awesome players and proficient learners. Their writing books, especially, are testament to just how far these children have progressed with their learning this year. From tracing letters at the beginning of the year to now writing paragraphs detailing their weekends, these Preps have worked hard and played hard.
Our Co-curricular Program here at Castlefield offers a diverse range of opportunities for our students to thrive in, be challenged and chase their passions with vigour. Our upcoming musical, Shrek Jnr, is a testament of this, with many of our Middle School students dedicating themselves to a wonderful stage performance. Their commitment to their craft and their willingness to keep on improving, under guidance from their amazing staff team, is a fantastic trait to have. We continue to encourage all our students to explore the numerous activities, opportunities and experiences that Middle School has to offer. As we always say: try new things, work hard and be kind.
Book Week is coming up, and we are excited to have a lineup of visiting artists who will share their passion for reading and writing with our students. Throughout the week, these amazing authors will engage with our middle schoolers, offering inspiring insights into the creative process and the magic of storytelling. This event is a wonderful opportunity for all students to immerse themselves in the world of literature and enhance their appreciation for writing as we continue to promote literacy. Book Week is another fantastic addition to the term’s rich schedule of incursions designed to enrich our students’ educational experiences in Middle School.
Katrina Manson
Head of Castlefield (Brighton)
Our incredible HPFC president, Monique, has completed her tenure with us. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks for all her hard work and dedication to the Castlefield community.
As the HPFC undergoes restructuring, the Castlefield office will be coordinating events with the help of our parent volunteers. If you can support an event or if you are interested in becoming part of the HPFC, please complete the associated form below or send us an email.
I am interested in getting involved in the Haileybury Parents & Friends Castlefield. HERE
Sign up to help assist with the pre-show sales of food and beverages. HERE
Sign up to assist with the sale of gifts to our students across the campus at the Father’s Day Stall. HERE
We love coming together to share our knowledge and the MS Trivia Night saw lots of learning and sharing by all. What fierce competition the Chocolate Coin Toss was.
It has been a joy to see our students launch straight back into learning at Haileybury City. After a wonderful break, excited students greeted their friends in our new library and tuckshop space. Every year level has been fascinated by the way the new spaces appeared so much bigger and brighter. They have been curious about all the nooks for reading, the booths for socialising, the independent study seats at the window, and the library classroom. It is hard to remember what it was like before; such is the power of innovative design to delight the senses. The City reception area, meeting rooms and assembly spaces are also being admired by all.
Support from families who read every night with your child, as well as the valuable time your child reads independently, pays dividends by providing a literature rich experience. I am delighted that this love of reading has a new home that is still in the heart of our School. You can’t enter or leave our campus without passing the library! Book Week is fast approaching, and we look forward to sharing more updates in the coming weeks.
Our students are focused on their Semester 2 goals and finishing the year well. From our youngest three year olds who are learning their letters and sounds to our tall Year 8s heading to exams and Pre-senior School, everyone is focused on the learning.
We were delighted to receive our student reports and send these out to families. The results are outstanding across all the cohorts at Haileybury in all areas of reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation, and numeracy. We are so proud of the high expectations we have that enable our students to work beyond the Victorian average by 18 months and more. The results have showcased the depth and breadth of our students’ skills in literacy and numeracy, which underpin their engagement and success in all aspects of their academic, social, emotional and physical development. Success breeds success, and we love seeing our students happy and engaged in all the opportunities on offer at Haileybury.
Reception children have started the Jolly Phonics program that explores letter-sound relationships. The children have been introduced to the initial sounds of s, a, t, p, i and n and have had experiences to consolidate their knowledge of these letters and their sounds.
Our literacy program involves songs, actions and games to foster children’s love of literacy. By making learning fun and interactive, the children stay engaged and motivated, and this naturally develops their literacy skills. Over the term, children will continue to be introduced to various letters and their sounds.
Pre-prep children have shown an interest in understanding the roles of community workers which has led to our recent art project, ‘Can you imagine?’ This project has inspired the children to create their own artwork to visually represent who they imagine they might be when they grow up.
The project focuses on extending and providing the Pre-prep children with the opportunity to develop their emergent writing and strengthen their finger dexterity to manipulate different tools with control and precision.
The children have certainly enjoyed sharing their projects and their writing skills with their peers and educators.
As we embark on a new semester, we are pleased to announce the formal induction of our Year 4 Junior School Leaders for Semester 2, 2024. These students, supported by their peers who held leadership positions in Semester 1, are thrilled to be commencing their new roles.
Leadership is fundamentally about influence. It involves guiding others, inspiring them, and setting an example through one’s actions. Additionally, true character is revealed in what one does when no one is watching. We are confident that these new leaders will not only lead by example but will also uphold our School values superbly.
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Nimmi
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Flag Bearer
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Adian
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Newton House Captain
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Anna
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Main House Captain
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Demos
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Na House Captain
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Jason
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Elliot House Captain
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Annabelle
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Arts Captain
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Oliver
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Sports Captain
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Nate
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Environment Captain
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Henry & Vianshi
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Library Captains
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Genevieve
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Social Justice Captain
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City’s Prep students celebrated a significant milestone on 29 July, marking 100 days of school. Under the exceptional guidance of Ms Tracey Cronin, the Preps prepared sentences to read aloud at the festive event held in our newly renovated Level 9 space. The celebration featured parent guests, music, chocolate lollipops, and fairy bread sprinkled with hundreds and thousands!
Our Week 2 assembly featured, Olympic table tennis player and City Maths teacher, Mr David Powell. Mr Powell, who has represented Australia in both the Tokyo and Rio Olympics, shared his remarkable experiences with our students.
Students were particularly fascinated by Mr Powell’s stories about the Olympic village, the rigorous training sessions and the camaraderie among athletes from around the world. His insights provided a unique perspective on the dedication and hard work required to compete at the highest level.
Dressed in his 2020 Tokyo Olympics blazer, Mr Powell emphasised the importance of always trying your best and finding joy in your chosen sport. His message resonated deeply with the students, inspiring them to pursue their passions with enthusiasm and commitment.
Our Year 5 students recently participated in an exciting MiniBoss incursion, designed to introduce them to the world of entrepreneurship and leadership. The program aimed to equip our young learners with essential skills that will serve them well in their future endeavours.
During the incursion, students engaged in a variety of interactive activities and challenges that focused on critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork and creativity. They learned how to develop business ideas, create marketing strategies and manage resources effectively.
Our Year 7 students recently had the opportunity to attend the Ancient Cultures workshop at the Hellenic Museum, located within the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). This enriching experience allowed them to delve into the fascinating world of ancient civilizations and explore their lasting impact on modern society.
The workshop provided an in-depth look at various ancient cultures, including the Greeks, Egyptians and Romans. Students were captivated by the museum’s impressive collection of artifacts, which included ancient pottery, sculptures and everyday objects used by these historic civilizations. Through these artifacts, students gained a deeper understanding of the daily lives, beliefs and innovations of ancient peoples.
Caroline Merrick
Head of City
Well, we are totally back in the swing of Term 3. The students’ happy smiling faces, catching up with friends and enjoying being back into the routine of school life is so lovely to see. I hope that everyone has had a wonderful mid semester break and enjoyed the lovely crisp sunny winter days.
What a lovely surprise it has been to see finalisation of the ground floor redevelopment at Haileybury City. It is a lovely learning space that is inviting, warm and welcoming. How lucky we are to have such a wonderful area for our students to enjoy.
Over the break, we had time to receive the photos of the Trivia Night. Thank you to Jade Wisely for taking them for us. I hope the photos demonstrate how much fun we all had.
It certainly was a great night, with everyone leaving with a smile on their face. Thank you to everyone who helped make the night such a wonderful success.
Following the success of Trivia Night, the HPF City team is now focusing on the final event of the HPF City year. The HPF City Cocktail Party, themed ‘Springtime Fun,’ will take place on Friday, 18 October. This major friendraising event contributes to the purchase of new equipment for all year levels at Haileybury City. The cocktail party promises to be a fantastic evening with excellent food, entertainment and company. Ticket details will soon be available on the myHaileybury app. Be sure to book quickly, as we have had two sold out events this year — you won't want to miss out!
The popular Second-hand Uniform Pop-up Shop will held be once again on 12 and 13 September at Haileybury City. To ensure that any donations are received and tagged in time for the Term 3 dates, please feel free to bring in your contributions and place them in the blue bins in the basement or on King Street entrance. The form is available on the myHaileybury app.
As always, please feel free to email the committee at hpfcity@haileybury.com.au should you have any queries.
Melissa Fisher
President, Haileybury Parents & Friends City
As we have grown beyond 1,000 students and with over 200 staff in 2024, I thought it would be timely to describe the roles carried out by our three exceptional Vice Principals. It is rather special that each of these leaders has been here for several years and is committed to our future.
Felicity Pearson joined HRS at the start of 2021. Her role as Deputy Principal has developed and evolved over time with many portfolios that have drawn on the skillsets she developed from 20 years at Wesley College, Melbourne and its offshoot, Yiramalay College in the Kimberley, Western Australia. Currently Felicity oversees many areas including enrolments, marketing, Indigenous education, international relations, risk and compliance, policies and special events. Currently she is in Indonesia working for Haileybury to further relationships and develop enrolment opportunities for our international boarding school. Felicity has a passion for the Performing Arts and is again taking a lead role directing the School musical, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Dennis Nowak is our Deputy Principal of Teaching and Learning. This whole-school role focuses on what is often described as our “core business” learning. In this role, Dennis oversees all elements of teaching, learning, curriculum, assessment and reporting. He is well-supported by all our learning leaders who include Heads of Department (HoDs) in the Middle School and Senior School and our Junior School Deputy Heads, Emma McDonald and Maddie McAllister. Dennis joined HRS in 2021 as Director of Boarding but is enjoying his second year in the DP role. He is passionate about differentiation, challenge and high expectations. With two children in the Junior School, I am hoping we have him hooked at HRS for years to come.
Wendy Pickering-Tyers joined HRS before I arrived and is now our Deputy Principal of Wellbeing. Her role as Head of the Senior School has prepared her perfectly for this senior leadership role. Wendy has a focus on all things to do with health, safety and wellbeing across the entire school. She works very closely with each of the four Heads of School; Michelle Shaw (ELC), Lisa Doyle (JS), Brendan Evans (MS) and Kylie Mobilia (SS). Wendy sets and encourages high standards in all she does for staff and students. She works closely with matters of wellbeing among boarders, the Indigenous Wellbeing Hub staff and students, and guiding the school counsellors. Wendy also manages complex behavioural issues along with the Heads of School.
It is wonderful to acknowledge our three amazing Deputy Principals and celebrate all their great work and ongoing commitment to our wonderful Territory school.
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Felicity Pearson |
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Dennis Nowak |
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Wendy Pickering-Tyers |
Andrew McGregor
Principal, Haileybury Rendall School
As we witnessed the excitement of the Olympic Games, it is an ideal time to reflect on the values this global event promotes — values that align closely with our own school ethos. The Olympics are more than just a competition; they represent a celebration of diversity, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. Athletes from around the world come together to showcase not just their physical abilities, but also their determination, sportsmanship and respect for one another.
These are the very qualities we strive to instil in our students every day. By encouraging them to set goals, overcome challenges and work collaboratively, we are helping to develop the leaders of tomorrow who, like Olympic athletes, will be equipped to face the world with confidence and integrity.
We are very excited about our Middle School students’ upcoming performance in the musical Frozen Jr. This beloved story will be brought to life by our incredibly talented students. From the actors to the stage crew, everyone has poured their heart and soul into making this production a magical experience for all.
This performance is not just a display of their artistic abilities, but also a testament to their hard work, teamwork and passion for the arts. We can’t wait for you to join us and witness the amazing energy and talent that our students bring to the stage.
I encourage everyone to come out and support our young performers. It is sure to be a spectacular show that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Since returning from the term break it has been great to see the children’s interest in the Paris Olympics grow. On Thursday, 1 August the ELC held their very own Mini Olympics, run by Mrs Sherritt and the Junior School leaders.
Introducing children to the concept of the Olympics can be an educational experience. They can learn about different countries, cultures, and the spirit of global unity and sportsmanship.
Both Reception and Pre-prep children were placed in groups and each group had a turn at the eight different events. These included Vortex, obstacle course, baton relays, shot put, hurdles, gymnastics, hula hoops and discus.
Participating in various activities helps children develop their gross motor skills and coordination, with skills such as running, jumping and other movements essential for their physical growth.
The mini-Olympics was a wonderful opportunity to provide a joyful experience for the children, work with older students within our Haileybury community and build a connection to a global event happening around them. It was fantastic to see so many families come along and get involved with their child, making it a truly memorable experience for all.
Congratulations to our Semester 2 Captains who were inducted as leaders on Friday, 26 July. They are all eager to develop their leadership skills this semester and contribute to our Junior School.
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Ali |
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Elise |
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Ale Bua |
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Isabelle |
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Ray |
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Sophie |
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Arkar |
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Zhiyan |
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Jayden |
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Joanne |
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Joshua |
It has been wonderful hearing our students discuss the different Olympics events they have watched on television. They are incredibly excited about seeing Australia compete against the rest of the world. Edrington held a mini-Olympics recently which was a huge success. Each class created their own class (country) flag which represented them. We had a torch relay, opening ceremony and of course a range of events. Our children had a fantastic time. Thank you to all the parents who came along to watch.
Middle School boys and girls have hit the ground running after the long winter holiday. Whilst the Olympics take Paris by storm, students have been showing their competitive spirit, each participating in one of ten sporting events: most cheering on classmates. Unfamiliar equipment and rules have been embraced during equestrian, fencing and marathon events, all somewhat unrecognisable but captivating to watch.
Meanwhile, STEM Week lured boys and girls to recess, lunchtime and afterschool events such as escape rooms, tree planting, bird nest painting and lip balm making. Competitions in Homerooms and incursions for everyone promise to engage all Curious Minds! Ms McRoberts has planned a memorable program for Edrington and we trust our boys and girls will sign up for a range of opportunities during Week 4.
Week 5 happens to be both Book Week and Show Week! Mrs Gallagher and Miss Buttery have been making magic — the theme of the Middle School musical Frozen Jr, and Book Week. Expect amazing author visits and a memorable show on Tuesday 20 August, Wednesday 21 August and Thursday 22 August. Tickets on sale here.
We know our School community will enjoy all the magical events happening in the coming weeks.
Adam Tobin
Acting Head of Edrington (Berwick)
This week we have our middle school musical and book week, followed by our Father’s day stall next week. A huge thank you to our amazing community for reaching out and volunteering to help at these events. We couldn’t do it without you, and the kids LOVE seeing you on their turf.
The HPFE are attending the Haileybury Community Liaison Meeting which is being hosted at the Keysborough campus by Scott Doran (Vice Principal). It is a great opportunity to get together with all the heads and the other P&Fs from all campuses, and brag about how much we love our community here at Edrington. We always get so many compliments from visiting families and staff.
The uniform shop is open every Wednesday from 8.15 am to 10.45 am for your uniform requirements. If you have any questions about items available pop in and visit or send an email.
Kerry Ilic & Tracy Day
HPFE Presidents
hpfe@haileybury.com.au
This year’s Book Week theme is ‘Reading in Magic.’
Newlands library will have guest Authors reading to each year level:
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Prep – Year 4
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Anna Fienberg
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Years 5 and 6 Girls
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Nova Weetman
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Years 5 and 6 Boys
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Marc McBride
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Years 7 and 8 Girls
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Jane Godwin
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Years 7 and 8 Boys
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Will Kostakis
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Year 8 students travelled to France, visiting Chateau De Versailles, Sacre Coeur, Champs Elysees, Louvre Museum, Arc De Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. They also saw the famous Bayeux Tapestry which depicts the battle of Hastings, had a guided visit to the D-Day Landing beaches and saw Mont St Michel in the Normandy region. They stayed in the old town of St Malo in Brittany and visited historic towns like Rouen, Dinard, Dinan and Chartres, each unique with cultural and historical perspective.
Year 8 students visited Mauritius. Students attended classes at our partner school, College Labourdonnais and explored Port Louis, Champ De Mars, Grand Bassin, Port Louis and Flacq Markets, and visited the state house. They spent a day with Mauritian families exploring their local traditions and learning to prepare typical Mauritian dishes. They saw first-hand how Mauritian cuisine has been influenced by French and Indian cuisine. Lastly, with a visit to the famous Pamplemousses Botanical Garden and L’Aventure Du Sucre, students learnt about the history of sugarcane in Mauritius.
This term has seen the start of our ‘take home reader’ program with children in Pre-prep building their knowledge of phonics as they begin to blend and decode with engaging texts at home. Children in Reception are steadily building their letter-sound knowledge as the letters ‘I', ‘p’ and ‘n’ are introduced through song, rhyme and engaging activities.
This year’s Book Week, we look forward to welcoming Vice Principal Scott Doran to the ELC as our special guest reader. For many years now, Mr Doran has captivated children in the ELC, bringing his guitar and a favourite book, and engaging children in an experience that proves that reading really is magic.
On Friday, 23 August children will have the opportunity to come dressed as their favourite book characters and engage in imaginative play experiences with their peers.
The emergent curriculum provides opportunities for children to engage with literacy in rich and authentic learning experiences. Pre-prep C has been learning about the water cycle. This has seen children questioning, investigating and most recently engaging with the creation of texts to demonstrate their learning. One example was a book titled The Water Cycle written by Jayden Lai (Pre-prep C):
“The Water Cycle. Written and illustrated by Jayden Lai.
Do you know how the water comes in the clouds?
Evaporation makes the water into gas.
Condensation then makes the clouds heavy.
Precipitation makes the clouds rain; the rain feeds the plants and the trees.
The water cycle comes again and again.”
Excitement is building as Book Week 2024 approaches. Get ready to embark on an enchanting literary journey at Newlands, where imagination knows no bounds and stories come to life. From Monday, 19 August to Friday, 23 August, our school will be buzzing with the magic of words, celebrating the power of storytelling and the joy of reading with the theme ‘Reading is Magic.’ The Junior School Book Week Parade will take place in Aikman Hall on Friday, 23 August, at 11.00 am, and all parents are encouraged to attend.
We are excited to invite fathers and special friends to join us on Friday, 30 August for an unforgettable Fathers and Special Friends Day celebration at Junior School. This event will commence at 2.05 pm with refreshments served in Berthon Hall. Following this, fathers and special friends will move around the Junior School with their children on a fun-filled exploration of the school, engaging in a variety of games and activities.
The day will include a series of interactive sessions where participants can join in on classroom activities, take part in sports and recreational games, and enjoy creative arts and crafts together.
Please mark your calendars and prepare for an afternoon of joy, laughter and fun. This is a day you will not want to miss, and we look forward to seeing you there.
Forest Edge is ready and waiting for our Year 3 students. Nestled in this 120-acre property surrounded by farmland, quiet rivers, fern gullies, old growth forests and mountain ranges. Students will get the opportunity to learn new skills on environmental walks and challenge themselves on the flying fox and ropes course.
This is one of the most memorable and exciting times on the 2024 calendar for the Year 3s.
This year, Middle School Father’s Day celebrations are heading to Luna Park. It will be a fun filled evening for both students and parents.
For further information and tickets please see Humanitix link here.
We have two exciting nights celebrating jazz on Monday 2 and Tuesday 3 September in an iconic performance venue in the heart of St Kilda; MEMO Music Hall. The Jazz Nights are an exciting opportunity to see our young musicians perform in a non-formal performance setting.
See more and get tickets here.
Recently, I was chosen to be part of the children’s chorus in the Melbourne production of TOSCA. I am very grateful that my voice teacher, Mrs McDowell believed in me and asked me to audition for this role.
The rehearsal schedules were hectic and went on for several weeks. I had to miss some school for the rehearsals but thanks to all my teachers, I was able to catch up on my work.
Being part of this production was an amazing experience for me. We were split into two casts (called Vatican and Colosseum) and each one performed on alternate nights. I made several new friends during this whole journey. I was privileged to listen to and perform alongside world renowned opera singers. We also got to perform alongside the incredible musicians of Orchestra Victoria.
This was my first experience outside of school in the field of performing arts and I am grateful to Haileybury for being so supportive of my endeavours.
Hugo Engele
Head of Newlands (Keysborough)
Come on down during Term 3 opening hours. If you didn’t know, there is now a puffer jacket available for Years 5–8.
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Friday, 26 July
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2.00 pm to 4.00 pm
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Saturday, 27 July
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9.00 am to 12.00 pm
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Friday, 2 August
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2.00 pm to 4.00 pm
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Saturday, 3 August
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9.00 am to 12.00 pm
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Friday, 16 August
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2.00 pm to 4.00 pm
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Friday, 23 August
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2.00 pm to 4.00 pm
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Saturday, 24 August
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9.00 am to 12.00 pm
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Friday, 30 August
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2.00pm to 4.00 pm
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Friday, 6 September
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9.00 am to 12.00 pm
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Friday, 13 September
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2.00 pm to 12.00 pm
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Saturday, 14 September
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9.00 am to 12.00 pm
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We are holding a volunteer training day on Saturday, 5 October for all new volunteers.
If you would like to join the team, please reach out on our Facebook.
Please join Mr Hugo Engele, Head of Newlands and Dr Nicholas Grigsby, Deputy Principal and Head of Haileybury Senior Schools for the HPFK meeting at 7.00 pm on Thursday 5 September at the Newlands Resource Centre.
This is a great opportunity to meet other parents in our community and all parents are welcome to join. Light refreshments will be provided.
Lenice Norris
President, Haileybury Parents & Friends Keysborough
Last month, we thoroughly enjoyed celebrating OHA Week at HRS. Our Senior School students enjoyed a range of interactive activities, including a silent disco, a photo booth, captivating presentations and a variety of delicious food trucks. The day provided awareness of the OHA brand and demonstrated to our students that the Haileybury community will always be there for them.
We concluded the day with a memorable Chapter dinner, welcoming alumni living in Darwin along with senior staff from HRS. One of the attendees was David Ray (OH 1990) and his daughter Grace (OH 2022) who kindly shared their story with us.
David Ray and his beautiful family moved to Darwin in late 2019. They were very pleased to have had daughter Grace and now also daughter Lydia enrolled at their father’s alma mater.
After some post-VCE travelling, Grace returned to Darwin in mid-2023 to pursue her interest in visual arts, craft and design. This year, Grace has combined those interests by commencing studies in Architectural Design at Charles Darwin University. Aiming to truly become a Territorian, Grace hopes to use those skills in designing appropriate housing for the tropics.
Since arriving in Darwin, David completed and published his doctoral dissertation on Conflict and Enmity in the Asaph Psalms (Tübingen: Mohr Siebeck, 2023). While working as a Chartered Accountant and serving on a number of risk management and audit committees in the not-for-profit and public sectors, David continues to pursue his research on ancient texts and traditions as a University Scholar at St Francis College, Milton, Queensland (University of Divinity).
Thank you, David and Grace, for staying connected. Once a Haileyburian, always a Haileyburian.
The Tasmanian Chapter dinner at the Landscape Restaurant in Hobart was a wonderful occasion. Our members had a fantastic time catching up with each other while enjoying a delicious three-course dinner. One of the reasons we love hosting events is when we receive positive and unsolicited feedback: “The best part of the night was networking and reflecting on our experience of the School and how it has changed.”
It was fascinating to hear from one of the attendees, Stuart McFadzean (OH 1991), whose journey after graduating is incredible.
Stuart joined the army and served for 10 years, specialising as a Parachute Rigger and Air Dispatch Officer. The Army introduced him to a range of diverse outdoor pursuits including adventure racing to Africa, sailing in the Pacific and on several climbing expeditions to New Zealand and Nepal. Many of these pursuits he continues to enjoy.
During Stuart’s last posting, he met his partner Melinda and they moved to Hobart in search of adventure and a more exciting lifestyle. According to Stuart, “There’s so much fun stuff to do in Tassie and within a short drive from your door, there is incredible wilderness, mountains, beaches and rivers.” They have built a beautiful home to European passive house standards of which they are immensely proud.
Stuart then joined the Australian Antarctic Division to work on a project to introduce fixed winged aircraft. One highlight was building Australia’s Wilkins Runway, the first ice runway to ever receive civil certifications. At the time, he viewed this as an exciting side project, a diversion from a more conventional career that he was sure he would be drawn into. He didn’t realise Antarctic operations would become his career and passion!
Stuart passionately believes that tourism, when done well, is essential for the ongoing protection of Antarctica. This is his 10th year with White Desert Antarctica where he leads operations. He brings both tourists and scientists in to experience Antarctica with the aim of ensuring the continent is valued, understood and protected. They do so with a far lighter footprint than government programs and he is delighted that they have pioneered many techniques to minimise environmental impact.
Recently, Stuart was fortunate to return to formal study, completing the General Management Program at Harvard. “Learning is a lifelong passion that began at Haileybury, and it was a great opportunity to test myself and keep abreast of global trends while living in Tassie,” he commented.
Thank you, Stuart, for staying connected. Once a Haileyburian, always a Haileyburian.
Information regarding all OHA events can be found here.
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Thursday, 22 August
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OHA Brighton Generations Breakfast
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Friday, 23 August
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Class of 1994 - 30 Year Reunion
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Sunday, 25 August
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Mornington Peninsula Lunch
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Sold out |
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Thursday, 12 September
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OHA London event
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Friday, 13 September
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Perth Chapter Dinner
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Friday, 4 October
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Golf Day
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Friday, 11 October
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Class of 1989 - 35 Year Reunion
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Saturday, 12 October
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Berwick Edrington Reunion
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Wednesday, 16 October
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OHA Foundation Archives event
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Friday, 18 October
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Class of 2004 - 20 Year Reunion
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Wednesday, 23 October
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OHA Canberra Chapter dinner
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Thursday, 24 October
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OHA Sydney Chapter evening
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Friday, 25 October
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Class of 1974 - 50 Year Reunion
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Friday, 25 October
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Clark Club Luncheon
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Thursday, 31 October
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OHA Brisbane Chapter dinner
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Friday, 1 November
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OHA Gold Coast Chapter dinner
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Friday, 8 November
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Class of 1999 - 25 Year Reunion
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Friday, 15 November
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Class of 2019 - 5 Year Reunion
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We love hearing what our OHA alumni are up to. Please submit your amazing stories here.
If you do not already, please follow the OHA on Facebook and Instagram. We also invite you to stay connected by subscribing to our monthly newsletter here.
Please note that the OHA Office is here for all members and we encourage you to reach out if required via stayconnected@haileybury.com.au or contact me on 9904 6615
Kylie Phillips
Development Office Operations Lead
Term 3 is a particularly momentous one for our Year 12 students as they count down their final weeks of coursework, completing their last SACs and preparing for their Units 3 and 4 examinations. It has been wonderful to see students supporting each other and making the most of the academic coaching and additional support on offer.
Year 12 students have also had a range of sessions with the Careers team to support them in preparing for their post-school pathways, including submission of VTAC applications. One-to-one sessions with our Careers counsellors are available and strongly encouraged for all our Year 12 students as they consider their options for future study, work pathways and beyond.
All Senior students are members of the Careers Canvas course, where they can find curated resources and book in a time to meet with our Careers team.
As pioneers in educational innovation, Haileybury Pangea staff engage regularly with the wider educational community to share insights and learn about the needs of schools, students and families across Australia.
In July, Pangea’s Digital Learning Leader Geoff Orton attended the Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association National Conference in Sydney, linking with parents and professionals who advocate for educational access for students living in remote areas across Australia.
We are also delighted to celebrate Haileybury Pangea teacher and Digital Learning Leader Dominika Kapustka, who was named Education Rising Star of the Year at the Australian Education Awards in August.
Haileybury staff will also present this month at EduTech and at CanvasCon — two of Australia’s largest educational technology events — about Haileybury’s innovative use of technology to enhance teaching and learning.
Joanna Baker
Head of Campus
Term 3 is always a time for hard work and consolidation of pre-existing knowledge as students move towards the completion of the curriculum in each of their subjects. The VCE trial examinations will be in Weeks 8 and 9. All School Assessed Coursework (SACs) for Units 3 and 4 studies will be completed by Week 8. This then allows teachers and students to focus on revision and examination practice throughout the September break and the early weeks of Term 4.
After months of planning and mounting excitement, the Year 11 Semi-formal was held on Thursday, 8 August. The stunning venue of Leonda by the Yarra was transformed into the perfect place for a celebration of the entire Year 11 cohort and teachers.
Memories made were marked by not only the professional photos, but also a playful photo booth with seemingly endless and hilarious prop options. Students carried themselves with immense class and respect throughout the event and ensured that it was a great night for everyone. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the cohort and their dedicated teachers, whose tireless efforts in organising and chaperoning the event were key to its success
Amica recently represented Australia in the Jiangmen International Futsal Cup in China. In a thrilling final against Mainland China, Australia emerged as champions, thanks in part to Mary’s stunning long-range goal from the halfway line. Amica’s skill and dedication were key to the team’s success, earning her recognition on the international stage. Her performance is a proud moment for Haileybury and a testament to her potential as a rising star in futsal.
The Duke of Edinburgh International Award is a youth development program run by Haileybury that empowers young people to expand their horizons and provides them with new opportunities. Throughout the program, students develop their resilience, creativity, courage and independence. This year, four students have achieved the remarkable Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, which requires at least 52 weeks of skills development, physical recreation and voluntary work.
Christian (Year 12) holds the bronze award and completed the gold award this year, with his activities including court/field sports, acoustic guitar and youth leadership. For his Cultural Exploration and Residential Project, Christian attended a French Cultural Program and a French Exchange.
Sofia (Year 12) completed all three levels of the award, following her Compass Award achievement – the Junior version of the Duke of Edinburgh award. For her Gold Award, Sofia participated in court sports, community leadership, and drumming. She trekked through the Annapurna Range in Nepal and helped install a library at a school in Nepal for her expedition and Residential Project.
Lucy (Year 12) has completed the bronze award, and this year achieved the gold award. She developed her skills in trumpet, gardening, hockey and volleyball, and participated in the Symphony Orchestra for her service. Lucy trekked through the Annapurna Range and assisted in installing a library at a Nepali school for her Adventurous Journey and Residential Project.
“My favourite part of the Duke of Ed Award was participating in the Haileybury Nepal trip last year, which counted as both my Gold Adventurous Journey and Residential Project. We had the opportunity to explore Pokhara and Kathmandu, hike across mountains with incredible views, volunteer at a local school by organising a library, teaching classes and painting murals, and meet lots of local people who shared insight into Nepal’s culture, language, and history. The trip was an extraordinary experience that taught me a lot about myself, and I am beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to partake in it.”Lucy (Year 12)
Ravin is a holder of the bronze award and achieved the gold award this year. He participated in swimming, gym activities, rock climbing, music and language. His services included school leadership, assisting the elderly and library committee work. Ravin completed the Great North Walk for his Adventurous Journey and attended a Residential Language course for his Residential Project.
“Duke Of Ed was a great opportunity for me to push my limits as a person and explore the world while developing personal and physical skills that will be extremely useful in the future. My adventurous journey was definitely the most memorable part of my award, because even though I dreaded the idea at first, I left as a changed and much more independent person, armed with newly forged friendships that'll last quite some time.”Ravin (Year 12)
The gold Award is an outstanding achievement requiring exceptional dedication and passion. Congratulations to all the gold recipients this year.
The award provides young people with opportunities to develop meaningful skills and contribute to our communities through leadership and service. The most meaningful takeaways from completing the award are the memories of grasping opportunities that you might otherwise have never been able to experience. More information about the award structure is available on the In2 Adventure Canvas course.
As part of the extra-curricular programs at Haileybury, Senior School students can take part in the end-of-year leadership residential program. This trip is during the Term 4 holidays and will be facilitated by Outward Bound at their national campus in Tharwa, ACT. The program provides Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award students with an opportunity to complete the Residential Project section of the award, however, can be attended by all Senior School students. Students will be expected to plan and work with a group where they can develop leadership, discipline, communication, and decision-making skills. Students will be spending three nights in cabins and one night in tents. Participants will be completing tasks including bushwalking, abseiling and many initiative exercises. Students will be accompanied by Outward Bound staff and one Haileybury staff member. More information is available on the In2 Adventure Canvas course.
“Travelling interstate and attending a public program alone seemed daunting at first, however that week was one the best experiences of my life. We were presented with a vast set of challenges throughout the week which as a group we attempted to overcome, whilst completing reflective activities. The highlight was camping on a hilltop with a campfire keeping us cosy.”Sunny (Year 11)
The DOE award is offered to all students that are 14 years old or older. If you have any enquiries email Ms Visick or check out the award website:
As part of the Library and Information week, MacGregor Library at Senior School Keysborough, hosted an Escape Room challenge designed to promote the library’s incredible resources and services while offering a fun and educational experience for everyone involved. It was themed around our beloved Axolotl, living in the science building. The escape room was crafted to test participants' problem-solving skills, teamwork, and knowledge about books, and the library. Students worked in teams to solve a series of puzzles and riddles, all while navigating through the wealth of information our library offers. The goal was to escape in the shortest time possible.
We are delighted to announce that the winners completed the escape room with an impressive time of 3 minutes and 35 seconds. Their outstanding teamwork and resourcefulness earned them $20 Wings Café vouchers each. Congratulations to Rachel, Raena, Jaya, and Isabella, all in Year 10, for their incredible achievement! A big thank you to our Library Committee, and everyone who participated to make this event a resounding success!
Dr Nicholas Grigsby
Deputy Principal
Head of Senior Schools
The final round of APS Winter Sport concluded on 3 August and on behalf of the Haileybury Sport Department, we would like to extend a special thanks to all our families, students and staff for a successful season of sport. Of particular note, our Boys First Basketball Team secured the 2024 APS Premiership. Congratulations to all team members, Team Manager Duncan Berg and coach Rhys Carter for guiding the team through the season undefeated.
On Friday 9 August, 32 Haileybury first team members were selected to represent the APS in their respective sports and take on the AGSV at Caulfield Grammar School. We would like to congratulate all players nominated initially for their outstanding seasons of sport and those selected for their high standard of skill, adaptability and sportsmanship they brought to the day of competition. Special mention to Kate, Keyaan, Isabella, Georgia, Ella, Alexandra, Mitchell, Angelina and Kevin who were named in captaincy roles on the day.
Congratulations to Bhanu (Year 10) and Thivyaa (Year 12) for being named in the Victorian Country emerging players U16 and U19 squads respectively.
Congratulations also to Madeline (Year 12) and Inakshi (Year 11) who have also been named in the U19 Victorian Metro emerging players’ squad.
This is a wonderful reward for our students in what is fast becoming a growing sport for girls at Haileybury.
Congratulations to Year 7 student Zara on being selected in the U15 Victoria representative team for lacrosse. Lacrosse is not a sport we hear a lot about but hopefully we will in the future as we follow Zara and her endeavours.
We now look forward to our spring season of sport getting underway and wish all our Dance and Aerobics Teams the best as they embark on National campaigns in the coming weeks. We look forward to sharing their results with you in the next edition.
Kylie Leys
Head of Haileybury Sport (Senior Girls)
Haileybury students have access to a huge range of opportunities in the co-curricular space including performing arts, creative arts, sport and our many experiential learning programs. But underpinning everything we do is a focus on core academic development, so students have the knowledge and skills to thrive in their post school environment.
We have now received the final 2024 National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) data for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 this year. Haileybury students’ results are extraordinarily strong across all four year levels and all five domains — reading, writing, spelling, grammar and numeracy.
The national, state and territory results were released last week by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority*. The debate has continued to focus on the fact that around one-third of all Australian students are not meeting proficiency for all year levels. This is deeply troubling.
In reading and writing this is in part because of the 30 plus year failure of the whole language approach to reading which was pushed and promoted by university education faculties. As Julie Hare noted in The Australian Financial Review on 17 August 2024, “It seems bizarre, almost unbelievable in fact, that universities have for at least four decades been peddling a baseless theory of early literacy and reading — the whole-word approach — that has undermined the educational attainment of millions of children and sabotaged many adulthoods.”
Twenty years ago, the evidence of this failure was already strong, and it was in 2008 when Haileybury rolled out the explicit teaching, phonics model in all our primary school classrooms.
It is unfortunate that several generations of Australian primary school students have missed the opportunity to learn through the evidence-based practice of explicit teaching and phonics. It is pleasing that finally, this year, every state and territory has agreed that this is the approach that should be followed.
Haileybury students have been fortunate to have the benefit of this approach followed by the brilliant teaching staff and it is why students are achieving between two to three years above the Australian national average in all year levels and domains.
An example of this is Year 3 Reading where the Haileybury student average is 513 compared to the national average of 404.2. The Australian Year 5 Reading average is 492. Thus Haileybury Year 3 students are well above the national Year 5 average. Haileybury Year 5s scored 582 which is well above the Year 7 national average of 535.
Two examples from numeracy reveal Haileybury’s Year 7 number score was 644 compared to the national Year 7 average of 539. The Year 9 Australian number average was 565.3 and Haileybury Year 9 students average was 675.
These are extraordinary results for Haileybury students and give them the core foundational skills and knowledge in literacy and numeracy to enable them to succeed in their further studies and after they leave school.
That Haileybury students achieve so well is the result of a focused program using evidence-based practices, outstanding teaching, committed students and great support from families. Congratulations to the whole Haileybury community.
*Disclosure: Haileybury CEO | Principal Derek Scott is also the Chair of ACARA.
Derek Scott
CEO | Principal
Sport offers all kinds of ways to boost our wellbeing in the most holistic sense — from mental health and building resilience, to developing social skills, teamwork and trying new activities.
This is especially true for young people who are still at school. At Haileybury, we see sport as a natural extension of the development that takes place in the classroom, and encourage parents and students alike to see sporting activities as not only a means of competition or physical development, but as a way to grow as a person too.
With the Olympic Games underway and Term 3 in full swing, here is a closer look at some of the benefits that come with saying “yes” to sport.
Taking part in sport at any age and any level of competition can deliver great benefits to our mental, emotional and social wellbeing, while improving our physical health as well. Physical activities have been shown to release endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters, which can alleviate emotions like anxiety and depression. Taking part in sport can also improve a young person’s sense of inclusivity and self-esteem, as they feel the sense of accomplishment that comes from taking part, physically moving and maybe even scoring a win or two.
“As your child grows and becomes more skilled, sport provides many opportunities that assist in developing their confidence, sense of satisfaction and accomplishment which are essential to wellbeing.”Neringa Smith, Haileybury Director of Counselling Services
Sport is a vital part of the Haileybury experience, with students encouraged to discover the kinds of team sports and physical activities that excite and motivate them most. While playing sport is a rewarding experience in itself, we also see first-hand how the benefits of sport extend to the classroom too.
Physical activity has been linked to improved sleep, concentration, memory and cognitive function, which can translate to better academic performance. The discipline and focus students learn through sports can help them to develop a strong work ethic and manage time effectively. Sports also provide a productive outlet for all the energy that comes with being a young person, which can support students to stay engaged with their academic activities when they are in the classroom and feel less stressed about exams, assessments and homework.
Diane Furusho, Deputy Principal of Student Wellbeing, sees sport as a great way to build relationships with your peers and work well within a structured environment. “Following the rules of sport can relate to following rules in the classroom,” she says.
Teamwork, connection and collaboration are all vital aspects of the school experience, and students can all experience them firsthand by taking part in team sports. They foster a sense of community and belonging as young people learn to work together towards a common goal.
This collaborative environment helps develop essential social skills such as communication, empathy, leadership and conflict resolution. Being part of a team also instils a sense of responsibility and accountability, as each member must contribute to the team’s success. These experiences can build lasting friendships and a support network that extends beyond the sports field.
For many students, particularly those taking part in sport at a competitive level, the pressures of navigating the demands of both their sport and their education might be challenging. Parents can play a crucial role in supporting their children as they navigate the pressures of performing at their peak in all kinds of ways, so they can still experience all the positive benefits to their wellbeing.
Neringa recommends, “Helping with organisation and setting priorities, and having some flexibility regarding priorities. Sometimes sport training or competition may take priority, and at other times study and school may need to take priority.”
She also recognises the importance of taking time to recharge. “Acknowledge that they may not be able to give 100% to everything at the same time, especially once they reach Years 11 and 12 — they may need to prioritise,” she says. “Teach your young person to notice signs of when they are starting to reach their limit with commitments. Noticing these signs when they have reached 80–90% of their limit is important, before they are exhausted.”
Open communication is key, so that young people feel comfortable to share any feelings of stress they are experiencing. Together, you can work out a more balanced approach to time management, prioritising tasks and setting goals. Haileybury’s brilliant teachers and coaching staff are all on-hand to support you and your young person with striking a healthy balance as well.
Playing sport at a more high-performing, competitive level is not for everyone. However, that does not mean young people should miss out on the wellbeing benefits that come with getting active, getting out there and having a go. Instead, parents can encourage their children to focus on having fun, teamwork and bonding, and personal growth rather than competition.
You might consider introducing your young person to a variety of activities, such as swimming, cycling, or dance, so that they can find what they enjoy most. If they are still curious about team sports, focus on the social side of joining a team, rather than the pressure of being chosen for a certain sport at a competitive level.
Ultimately, parents should try to create a positive and fun environment around sport and physical activity, where it is okay to try something and not like it, or feel disappointed for not excelling right away. It takes time to settle into something new and develop skills — and the novelty of playing the game should not be lost along the way.
Taking part in sports with your young person is a great opportunity to connect with them over a shared interest, while setting a positive example. These shared activities provide an opportunity for quality time, fostering open communication and providing encouragement if your child is lacking confidence when playing a certain sport. Parents can also model healthy behaviours like navigating stress and setbacks, while promoting a more active lifestyle for the whole family.
“It is great for parents to play sport with their children,” says Diane.
“Parents can lead by example and show that they value being active as well. It’s also just fun — and it’s important to do fun activities together as a family.”Diane Furusho, Haileybury Deputy Principal of Student Wellbeing
Sport is a central part of life at Haileybury and an important avenue for developing social connections, resilience and wellbeing. With the arrival of the 2024 Paris Olympics, students and staff alike are even more excited and inspired to get active, team up and strive to do their best. All students in Middle School and Senior School are currently taking part in compulsory winter sport, which includes activities such as netball, rugby, soccer, swimming and tennis.
The spring sport program is all set to follow afterwards, offering sports like athletics and water polo. That way, they will continue to experience and enjoy the holistic wellbeing benefits of taking to the court, the field, the track or the pool all year round.
You can discover more about Haileybury’s Sports program here.
A huge well done to the cast, crew and creative team of Middle School Newlands for their outstanding production of Puffs. The show was a resounding success, showcasing the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. The audience was treated to a delightful performance that offered a fresh, comedic take on the magical world we all know and love. The energy and enthusiasm on stage were palpable, making it a memorable experience for all who attended. Congratulations on a job well done!
Our Theatre Studies class recently had the unique opportunity to witness the powerful reinterpretation of Macbeth (An Undoing) at Malthouse Theatre. This bold production, which delves into the complex dynamics between Lady Macbeth and Macbeth, offers a fresh perspective on the classic play. To deepen their understanding, students also participated in an exclusive workshop led by Tim Paige, an experienced Shakespearean director, actor and presenter. The workshop provided invaluable insights into the art of Shakespearean performance, allowing students to explore the text in new and exciting ways. The students also attended a Q&A after the show.
Our drama and theatre students recently had the unique opportunity to engage with Mine, a new Australian play, through an exciting incursion. The play’s writers brought the production to us, allowing students to experience it in an intimate in-the-round setting. Following the performance, students participated in a workshop with the writers, where they had the chance to help workshop and refine some of the scenes. This hands-on experience not only deepened their understanding of the play’s themes but also offered them invaluable insights into the creative process behind developing a new work. The collaboration sparked meaningful discussions and allowed students to contribute their own perspectives to the evolving narrative.
Nick Waxman
Head of Drama and Theatre Studies
In the last few weeks of Term 2 the Music Department was immersed in a variety of concerts and performances involving a significantly large number of students. As always, our music staff were ever present, moving equipment, guiding and inspiring.
The Junior School String program is the foundation block upon which the Haileybury Music Department is built, and it is always exciting and fulfilling to witness the musical development of so many of these student as they thrive and flourish through Junior and Middle Schools and into the Senior School. Each campus hosted its own Junior String Recital where our Year 2s, Super Strings and Scrolls provided the soundtrack to David Walliams’ picture book Grannysaurus. It was a remarkable feat to play from memory for 40 minutes. This was the first concert for our Year 2 students and they are already preparing for a combined concert in Aikman Hall in Term 4 featuring the entire Year 2 cohort — a spectacle not to be missed!
Large, appreciative audiences were entertained by our Middle School Concert series when a plethora of dynamic large ensembles performed. All campus concerts were delightfully different in structure and repertoire, yet all shared the same joie de vivre. We are so proud of the students for their enthusiasm and dedication and for the musical maturity and expression they bring to their ensembles.
Aria Night was the first major event for Term 3 when nine vocal soloists brought class and poise to their Arias and Art Songs in a celebration of one of the highest art forms. Glitter, grandeur and glamour interspersed with works by grand master composers such as Bernstein, Schubert, Mozart and Vaughan Williams produced items that were equally impressive and professional. Outstanding renditions from a staff vocal quartet and Haileybury Singers brought the evening to a triumphant close. The three prize winners — Lucy, Alexis, and Santrix — now have the opportunity to perform live on 3MBS Radio.
Amongst myriad of assembly performances, Chapel Concerts, Performance Seminars and soirées we have two more large upcoming music events in Term 3:
The Annual Concert on 28 August at 7.00 pm will be presented by our senior ensembles and as always you are guaranteed an evening of eclectic and musically diverse styles including works by Sondheim, Britten, Ray Charles, Villoldo and Rossini. This will also be an opportunity to celebrate our Year 12 students and thank them for their contribution to Haileybury music in what will be one of their final school performances.
Please also join us on 2 or 3 September at Count’s, Monash University for Jazz Night. Enjoy dinner or a drink and be immersed in the energetic vigour and colours of Stage Band and jazz combos from all four campuses.
Thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you at a music event very soon.
Wendy Dwyer and Myfanwy Bramble
Heads of Haileybury Music
Our Haileybury Units 1 and 2 Visual Communication Design students attended a Top Designs excursion to gather inspiration for their own folios.
They participated in a product design workshop at Monash University (Caulfield) where they explored the design process to solve a problem and create a design solution. Using a range of materials, they built models and presented their ideas to the class for feedback. Students were given the opportunity to visit the Monash Art Design and Architecture (MADA) workshop and saw laser cutters and 3D printers in action as well as a range of models and prototypes.
It was a great day exploring the world of design and embracing creative thinking.
Ngaire Thomson
Head of Visual Arts Senior School
Jessie (Year 11), the Pipe Sergeant of the A Band of Haileybury Pipes & Drums, delivered an outstanding performance at the Victorian Solo Piping Championships on Saturday, 27 July 2024. The event, held at the Presbyterian Ladies College campus, saw Jessie dominate the competition in C Grade with straight firsts across all three light music elements, triumphing against seven other competitors. Her exceptional skill earned her the title of Overall C Grade Victorian Champion, a prestigious honour accompanied by the Clan McLennan Perpetual Shield and a $250 prize donated by Clan McLennan. In addition to this remarkable achievement, Jessie was awarded a set of MacCallum bagpipes — what a way to wrap up the solo piping season!
Dylan (Year 3) also represented Haileybury at the championships in the Novice grade. Although he did not advance to the finals, Dylan played exceptionally well, demonstrating his growing talent and dedication to the craft. As the youngest in the Novice grade, he showed incredible promise in his future piping. The achievements of both Jessie and Dylan at the Victorian Solo Championships highlight the continued excellence of Haileybury’s Pipes & Drums program. The students now look forward to their mid-year camp coming up this August.
Lincoln Hilton
Director, Pipes & Drums
As we move through to the end of the year, our transition programs are commencing across the campus. We have many opportunities for our families and students to find out more about the next stage of schooling they are entering.
The Middle School Heads and Deputy Heads of Year 7 hosted our current Year 6 families on Tuesday, 13 August to discuss what the second stage of Middle School looks like for our students.
Our Pre-prep families had the opportunity on Wednesday, 14 August to meet the Head of Junior School, Ms Jodie McInnes and visit the Prep classrooms. They were able to see the explicit model of teaching and our impressive Prep students in action.
Thank you to the families who joined us at each of these two events.
As part of the transition into Middle School, our Year 4 students meet with staff in Year 5 and spend time in the spaces they will move into. The Middle School Heads and Deputy Heads of Year 5 will also host a parent session on Tuesday, 15 October at 4.00 pm to discuss that move between Junior School to Middle School for our current families.
The ELC students will commence their orientation program for Prep in Term 4 and families will be advised of dates as they draw closer.
Our ELC Orientation Day for those students entering Reception or Pre-prep classes in 2025 is being held on Saturday, 23 October. Parents and children are invited to spend time in their new environment with staff.
We will host a Middle School information session on Monday, 18 November for all families to hear about the Middle School journey.
UpDay for all students is set for Tuesday, 19 November. Students from Prep through to Year 8, 2025, spend the day in their new year level meeting new faces, familiarising themselves with new spaces, and in some cases being introduced to new subjects and teachers.
We have a fabulous roundabout system within our gates and encourage parents to utilise the South Road entrance for drop off and pick up. Some congestion is created when families are attempting to pick up along South Road, rather than at the roundabout within the School.
I remind families to avoid blocking both lanes on South Road when attempting to join the queue entering the School property and to please avoid double parking along South Road waiting for your child/ren to appear. There is a bike lane that is being blocked when this happens.
We thank our families for being considerate of the parking signs in our surrounding streets and respectful of our neighbours’ properties. The safety of our students is paramount and when they are unable to be picked up at the curb, as cars are parked, it can be dangerous.
The front of the School on South Road is a two-minute ‘kiss and go’ zone, hence parents should not be leaving their cars unattended.
The Pre-prep children have been invited to share a special afternoon tea in small groups with Ms Veale each week in her office. This is a lovely opportunity for conversation and connection to build language skills and relationships. Ms Veale is capturing the child’s voice to gather ideas and suggestions about the ELC learning spaces and experiences.
“Ms Veale wants to have afternoon tea with us because we’re good kids, we’re special, and she loves us.”
“We drink real life tea and talk. It makes me happy.”
“We had lemon myrtle tea – it was yummy.”
“The best part was having the tea. It made me feel lucky.”
“It was fun because there was music, and we talked.”
Reception have commenced their literacy program, focusing on individual sounds and letters, with many opportunities for intentional and incidental learning experiences to assist the children with phonics, aural discrimination, phonemic awareness, oral language and writing.
Pre-prep finished the end of Semester 1 with Milo’s birthday party, celebrating the completion of all sounds, letters and some diagraphs. They have recently been looking at golden words, revisiting sounds and letters, and exploring blending.
“We learn new letters and diagraphs. Diagraphs are two letters that make a sound, like th and ph. I like learning things that start with diagraphs and letters, so we can learn to write, learn to make words and learn to read.”
The Junior School inducted their Semester 2 House Leaders in an assembly steeped in tradition. Welcomed by the Pipes & Drums band, the next round of young leaders accepted their badges and committed to the pledge given by current Middle School captains, Levi and Tilly. Part of their leadership journey is giving back to the Junior School community by running recess and lunchtime clubs. Posters can be found in classrooms with the schedule. There is something for everyone, from sandcastle building to basketball games.
“As a House Captain, I’m mostly looking forward to running clubs and helping others if they fall.”Atlanta
“I’m looking forward to speaking at assembly because I haven’t done it before, and I can’t wait to stand at the lectern and speak into the microphone.”Stirling
“As a House Captain, I can’t wait to run assemblies so I can work on my confidence to speak in front of a crowd.”Scarlett
“I can’t wait to speak at assemblies, I think that will be quite fun.”Pippa
“I’m running the Sandcastle Club and I’m hoping to see new and exciting designs of sandcastles. I’m also doing the Oval Ball Games, and my goal is to see children improving their ball skills.”Oscar
The 100th day of formal education is a huge milestone to hit for the child, the parent and the teacher. We celebrated this year with the theme ‘100 Days Brighter’ and started the day with a parade through East Quad to the clapping and cheering of the Junior School. The day was filled with activities and celebrations. Our Preps have become great carers, awesome players and proficient learners. Their writing books, especially, are testament to just how far these children have progressed with their learning this year. From tracing letters at the beginning of the year to now writing paragraphs detailing their weekends, these Preps have worked hard and played hard.
Our Co-curricular Program here at Castlefield offers a diverse range of opportunities for our students to thrive in, be challenged and chase their passions with vigour. Our upcoming musical, Shrek Jnr, is a testament of this, with many of our Middle School students dedicating themselves to a wonderful stage performance. Their commitment to their craft and their willingness to keep on improving, under guidance from their amazing staff team, is a fantastic trait to have. We continue to encourage all our students to explore the numerous activities, opportunities and experiences that Middle School has to offer. As we always say: try new things, work hard and be kind.
Book Week is coming up, and we are excited to have a lineup of visiting artists who will share their passion for reading and writing with our students. Throughout the week, these amazing authors will engage with our middle schoolers, offering inspiring insights into the creative process and the magic of storytelling. This event is a wonderful opportunity for all students to immerse themselves in the world of literature and enhance their appreciation for writing as we continue to promote literacy. Book Week is another fantastic addition to the term’s rich schedule of incursions designed to enrich our students’ educational experiences in Middle School.
Katrina Manson
Head of Castlefield (Brighton)
Our incredible HPFC president, Monique, has completed her tenure with us. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks for all her hard work and dedication to the Castlefield community.
As the HPFC undergoes restructuring, the Castlefield office will be coordinating events with the help of our parent volunteers. If you can support an event or if you are interested in becoming part of the HPFC, please complete the associated form below or send us an email.
I am interested in getting involved in the Haileybury Parents & Friends Castlefield. HERE
Sign up to help assist with the pre-show sales of food and beverages. HERE
Sign up to assist with the sale of gifts to our students across the campus at the Father’s Day Stall. HERE
We love coming together to share our knowledge and the MS Trivia Night saw lots of learning and sharing by all. What fierce competition the Chocolate Coin Toss was.
It has been a joy to see our students launch straight back into learning at Haileybury City. After a wonderful break, excited students greeted their friends in our new library and tuckshop space. Every year level has been fascinated by the way the new spaces appeared so much bigger and brighter. They have been curious about all the nooks for reading, the booths for socialising, the independent study seats at the window, and the library classroom. It is hard to remember what it was like before; such is the power of innovative design to delight the senses. The City reception area, meeting rooms and assembly spaces are also being admired by all.
Support from families who read every night with your child, as well as the valuable time your child reads independently, pays dividends by providing a literature rich experience. I am delighted that this love of reading has a new home that is still in the heart of our School. You can’t enter or leave our campus without passing the library! Book Week is fast approaching, and we look forward to sharing more updates in the coming weeks.
Our students are focused on their Semester 2 goals and finishing the year well. From our youngest three year olds who are learning their letters and sounds to our tall Year 8s heading to exams and Pre-senior School, everyone is focused on the learning.
We were delighted to receive our student reports and send these out to families. The results are outstanding across all the cohorts at Haileybury in all areas of reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation, and numeracy. We are so proud of the high expectations we have that enable our students to work beyond the Victorian average by 18 months and more. The results have showcased the depth and breadth of our students’ skills in literacy and numeracy, which underpin their engagement and success in all aspects of their academic, social, emotional and physical development. Success breeds success, and we love seeing our students happy and engaged in all the opportunities on offer at Haileybury.
Reception children have started the Jolly Phonics program that explores letter-sound relationships. The children have been introduced to the initial sounds of s, a, t, p, i and n and have had experiences to consolidate their knowledge of these letters and their sounds.
Our literacy program involves songs, actions and games to foster children’s love of literacy. By making learning fun and interactive, the children stay engaged and motivated, and this naturally develops their literacy skills. Over the term, children will continue to be introduced to various letters and their sounds.
Pre-prep children have shown an interest in understanding the roles of community workers which has led to our recent art project, ‘Can you imagine?’ This project has inspired the children to create their own artwork to visually represent who they imagine they might be when they grow up.
The project focuses on extending and providing the Pre-prep children with the opportunity to develop their emergent writing and strengthen their finger dexterity to manipulate different tools with control and precision.
The children have certainly enjoyed sharing their projects and their writing skills with their peers and educators.
As we embark on a new semester, we are pleased to announce the formal induction of our Year 4 Junior School Leaders for Semester 2, 2024. These students, supported by their peers who held leadership positions in Semester 1, are thrilled to be commencing their new roles.
Leadership is fundamentally about influence. It involves guiding others, inspiring them, and setting an example through one’s actions. Additionally, true character is revealed in what one does when no one is watching. We are confident that these new leaders will not only lead by example but will also uphold our School values superbly.
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Nimmi
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Flag Bearer
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Adian
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Newton House Captain
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Anna
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Main House Captain
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Demos
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Na House Captain
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Jason
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Elliot House Captain
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Annabelle
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Arts Captain
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Oliver
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Sports Captain
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Nate
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Environment Captain
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Henry & Vianshi
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Library Captains
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Genevieve
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Social Justice Captain
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City’s Prep students celebrated a significant milestone on 29 July, marking 100 days of school. Under the exceptional guidance of Ms Tracey Cronin, the Preps prepared sentences to read aloud at the festive event held in our newly renovated Level 9 space. The celebration featured parent guests, music, chocolate lollipops, and fairy bread sprinkled with hundreds and thousands!
Our Week 2 assembly featured, Olympic table tennis player and City Maths teacher, Mr David Powell. Mr Powell, who has represented Australia in both the Tokyo and Rio Olympics, shared his remarkable experiences with our students.
Students were particularly fascinated by Mr Powell’s stories about the Olympic village, the rigorous training sessions and the camaraderie among athletes from around the world. His insights provided a unique perspective on the dedication and hard work required to compete at the highest level.
Dressed in his 2020 Tokyo Olympics blazer, Mr Powell emphasised the importance of always trying your best and finding joy in your chosen sport. His message resonated deeply with the students, inspiring them to pursue their passions with enthusiasm and commitment.
Our Year 5 students recently participated in an exciting MiniBoss incursion, designed to introduce them to the world of entrepreneurship and leadership. The program aimed to equip our young learners with essential skills that will serve them well in their future endeavours.
During the incursion, students engaged in a variety of interactive activities and challenges that focused on critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork and creativity. They learned how to develop business ideas, create marketing strategies and manage resources effectively.
Our Year 7 students recently had the opportunity to attend the Ancient Cultures workshop at the Hellenic Museum, located within the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). This enriching experience allowed them to delve into the fascinating world of ancient civilizations and explore their lasting impact on modern society.
The workshop provided an in-depth look at various ancient cultures, including the Greeks, Egyptians and Romans. Students were captivated by the museum’s impressive collection of artifacts, which included ancient pottery, sculptures and everyday objects used by these historic civilizations. Through these artifacts, students gained a deeper understanding of the daily lives, beliefs and innovations of ancient peoples.
Caroline Merrick
Head of City
Well, we are totally back in the swing of Term 3. The students’ happy smiling faces, catching up with friends and enjoying being back into the routine of school life is so lovely to see. I hope that everyone has had a wonderful mid semester break and enjoyed the lovely crisp sunny winter days.
What a lovely surprise it has been to see finalisation of the ground floor redevelopment at Haileybury City. It is a lovely learning space that is inviting, warm and welcoming. How lucky we are to have such a wonderful area for our students to enjoy.
Over the break, we had time to receive the photos of the Trivia Night. Thank you to Jade Wisely for taking them for us. I hope the photos demonstrate how much fun we all had.
It certainly was a great night, with everyone leaving with a smile on their face. Thank you to everyone who helped make the night such a wonderful success.
Following the success of Trivia Night, the HPF City team is now focusing on the final event of the HPF City year. The HPF City Cocktail Party, themed ‘Springtime Fun,’ will take place on Friday, 18 October. This major friendraising event contributes to the purchase of new equipment for all year levels at Haileybury City. The cocktail party promises to be a fantastic evening with excellent food, entertainment and company. Ticket details will soon be available on the myHaileybury app. Be sure to book quickly, as we have had two sold out events this year — you won't want to miss out!
The popular Second-hand Uniform Pop-up Shop will held be once again on 12 and 13 September at Haileybury City. To ensure that any donations are received and tagged in time for the Term 3 dates, please feel free to bring in your contributions and place them in the blue bins in the basement or on King Street entrance. The form is available on the myHaileybury app.
As always, please feel free to email the committee at hpfcity@haileybury.com.au should you have any queries.
Melissa Fisher
President, Haileybury Parents & Friends City
As we have grown beyond 1,000 students and with over 200 staff in 2024, I thought it would be timely to describe the roles carried out by our three exceptional Vice Principals. It is rather special that each of these leaders has been here for several years and is committed to our future.
Felicity Pearson joined HRS at the start of 2021. Her role as Deputy Principal has developed and evolved over time with many portfolios that have drawn on the skillsets she developed from 20 years at Wesley College, Melbourne and its offshoot, Yiramalay College in the Kimberley, Western Australia. Currently Felicity oversees many areas including enrolments, marketing, Indigenous education, international relations, risk and compliance, policies and special events. Currently she is in Indonesia working for Haileybury to further relationships and develop enrolment opportunities for our international boarding school. Felicity has a passion for the Performing Arts and is again taking a lead role directing the School musical, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Dennis Nowak is our Deputy Principal of Teaching and Learning. This whole-school role focuses on what is often described as our “core business” learning. In this role, Dennis oversees all elements of teaching, learning, curriculum, assessment and reporting. He is well-supported by all our learning leaders who include Heads of Department (HoDs) in the Middle School and Senior School and our Junior School Deputy Heads, Emma McDonald and Maddie McAllister. Dennis joined HRS in 2021 as Director of Boarding but is enjoying his second year in the DP role. He is passionate about differentiation, challenge and high expectations. With two children in the Junior School, I am hoping we have him hooked at HRS for years to come.
Wendy Pickering-Tyers joined HRS before I arrived and is now our Deputy Principal of Wellbeing. Her role as Head of the Senior School has prepared her perfectly for this senior leadership role. Wendy has a focus on all things to do with health, safety and wellbeing across the entire school. She works very closely with each of the four Heads of School; Michelle Shaw (ELC), Lisa Doyle (JS), Brendan Evans (MS) and Kylie Mobilia (SS). Wendy sets and encourages high standards in all she does for staff and students. She works closely with matters of wellbeing among boarders, the Indigenous Wellbeing Hub staff and students, and guiding the school counsellors. Wendy also manages complex behavioural issues along with the Heads of School.
It is wonderful to acknowledge our three amazing Deputy Principals and celebrate all their great work and ongoing commitment to our wonderful Territory school.
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Felicity Pearson |
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Dennis Nowak |
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Wendy Pickering-Tyers |
Andrew McGregor
Principal, Haileybury Rendall School
As we witnessed the excitement of the Olympic Games, it is an ideal time to reflect on the values this global event promotes — values that align closely with our own school ethos. The Olympics are more than just a competition; they represent a celebration of diversity, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. Athletes from around the world come together to showcase not just their physical abilities, but also their determination, sportsmanship and respect for one another.
These are the very qualities we strive to instil in our students every day. By encouraging them to set goals, overcome challenges and work collaboratively, we are helping to develop the leaders of tomorrow who, like Olympic athletes, will be equipped to face the world with confidence and integrity.
We are very excited about our Middle School students’ upcoming performance in the musical Frozen Jr. This beloved story will be brought to life by our incredibly talented students. From the actors to the stage crew, everyone has poured their heart and soul into making this production a magical experience for all.
This performance is not just a display of their artistic abilities, but also a testament to their hard work, teamwork and passion for the arts. We can’t wait for you to join us and witness the amazing energy and talent that our students bring to the stage.
I encourage everyone to come out and support our young performers. It is sure to be a spectacular show that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Since returning from the term break it has been great to see the children’s interest in the Paris Olympics grow. On Thursday, 1 August the ELC held their very own Mini Olympics, run by Mrs Sherritt and the Junior School leaders.
Introducing children to the concept of the Olympics can be an educational experience. They can learn about different countries, cultures, and the spirit of global unity and sportsmanship.
Both Reception and Pre-prep children were placed in groups and each group had a turn at the eight different events. These included Vortex, obstacle course, baton relays, shot put, hurdles, gymnastics, hula hoops and discus.
Participating in various activities helps children develop their gross motor skills and coordination, with skills such as running, jumping and other movements essential for their physical growth.
The mini-Olympics was a wonderful opportunity to provide a joyful experience for the children, work with older students within our Haileybury community and build a connection to a global event happening around them. It was fantastic to see so many families come along and get involved with their child, making it a truly memorable experience for all.
Congratulations to our Semester 2 Captains who were inducted as leaders on Friday, 26 July. They are all eager to develop their leadership skills this semester and contribute to our Junior School.
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Ali |
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Elise |
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Ale Bua |
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Isabelle |
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Ray |
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Sophie |
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Arkar |
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Zhiyan |
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Jayden |
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Joanne |
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Joshua |
It has been wonderful hearing our students discuss the different Olympics events they have watched on television. They are incredibly excited about seeing Australia compete against the rest of the world. Edrington held a mini-Olympics recently which was a huge success. Each class created their own class (country) flag which represented them. We had a torch relay, opening ceremony and of course a range of events. Our children had a fantastic time. Thank you to all the parents who came along to watch.
Middle School boys and girls have hit the ground running after the long winter holiday. Whilst the Olympics take Paris by storm, students have been showing their competitive spirit, each participating in one of ten sporting events: most cheering on classmates. Unfamiliar equipment and rules have been embraced during equestrian, fencing and marathon events, all somewhat unrecognisable but captivating to watch.
Meanwhile, STEM Week lured boys and girls to recess, lunchtime and afterschool events such as escape rooms, tree planting, bird nest painting and lip balm making. Competitions in Homerooms and incursions for everyone promise to engage all Curious Minds! Ms McRoberts has planned a memorable program for Edrington and we trust our boys and girls will sign up for a range of opportunities during Week 4.
Week 5 happens to be both Book Week and Show Week! Mrs Gallagher and Miss Buttery have been making magic — the theme of the Middle School musical Frozen Jr, and Book Week. Expect amazing author visits and a memorable show on Tuesday 20 August, Wednesday 21 August and Thursday 22 August. Tickets on sale here.
We know our School community will enjoy all the magical events happening in the coming weeks.
Adam Tobin
Acting Head of Edrington (Berwick)
This week we have our middle school musical and book week, followed by our Father’s day stall next week. A huge thank you to our amazing community for reaching out and volunteering to help at these events. We couldn’t do it without you, and the kids LOVE seeing you on their turf.
The HPFE are attending the Haileybury Community Liaison Meeting which is being hosted at the Keysborough campus by Scott Doran (Vice Principal). It is a great opportunity to get together with all the heads and the other P&Fs from all campuses, and brag about how much we love our community here at Edrington. We always get so many compliments from visiting families and staff.
The uniform shop is open every Wednesday from 8.15 am to 10.45 am for your uniform requirements. If you have any questions about items available pop in and visit or send an email.
Kerry Ilic & Tracy Day
HPFE Presidents
hpfe@haileybury.com.au
This year’s Book Week theme is ‘Reading in Magic.’
Newlands library will have guest Authors reading to each year level:
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Prep – Year 4
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Anna Fienberg
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Years 5 and 6 Girls
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Nova Weetman
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Years 5 and 6 Boys
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Marc McBride
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Years 7 and 8 Girls
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Jane Godwin
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Years 7 and 8 Boys
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Will Kostakis
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Year 8 students travelled to France, visiting Chateau De Versailles, Sacre Coeur, Champs Elysees, Louvre Museum, Arc De Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. They also saw the famous Bayeux Tapestry which depicts the battle of Hastings, had a guided visit to the D-Day Landing beaches and saw Mont St Michel in the Normandy region. They stayed in the old town of St Malo in Brittany and visited historic towns like Rouen, Dinard, Dinan and Chartres, each unique with cultural and historical perspective.
Year 8 students visited Mauritius. Students attended classes at our partner school, College Labourdonnais and explored Port Louis, Champ De Mars, Grand Bassin, Port Louis and Flacq Markets, and visited the state house. They spent a day with Mauritian families exploring their local traditions and learning to prepare typical Mauritian dishes. They saw first-hand how Mauritian cuisine has been influenced by French and Indian cuisine. Lastly, with a visit to the famous Pamplemousses Botanical Garden and L’Aventure Du Sucre, students learnt about the history of sugarcane in Mauritius.
This term has seen the start of our ‘take home reader’ program with children in Pre-prep building their knowledge of phonics as they begin to blend and decode with engaging texts at home. Children in Reception are steadily building their letter-sound knowledge as the letters ‘I', ‘p’ and ‘n’ are introduced through song, rhyme and engaging activities.
This year’s Book Week, we look forward to welcoming Vice Principal Scott Doran to the ELC as our special guest reader. For many years now, Mr Doran has captivated children in the ELC, bringing his guitar and a favourite book, and engaging children in an experience that proves that reading really is magic.
On Friday, 23 August children will have the opportunity to come dressed as their favourite book characters and engage in imaginative play experiences with their peers.
The emergent curriculum provides opportunities for children to engage with literacy in rich and authentic learning experiences. Pre-prep C has been learning about the water cycle. This has seen children questioning, investigating and most recently engaging with the creation of texts to demonstrate their learning. One example was a book titled The Water Cycle written by Jayden Lai (Pre-prep C):
“The Water Cycle. Written and illustrated by Jayden Lai.
Do you know how the water comes in the clouds?
Evaporation makes the water into gas.
Condensation then makes the clouds heavy.
Precipitation makes the clouds rain; the rain feeds the plants and the trees.
The water cycle comes again and again.”
Excitement is building as Book Week 2024 approaches. Get ready to embark on an enchanting literary journey at Newlands, where imagination knows no bounds and stories come to life. From Monday, 19 August to Friday, 23 August, our school will be buzzing with the magic of words, celebrating the power of storytelling and the joy of reading with the theme ‘Reading is Magic.’ The Junior School Book Week Parade will take place in Aikman Hall on Friday, 23 August, at 11.00 am, and all parents are encouraged to attend.
We are excited to invite fathers and special friends to join us on Friday, 30 August for an unforgettable Fathers and Special Friends Day celebration at Junior School. This event will commence at 2.05 pm with refreshments served in Berthon Hall. Following this, fathers and special friends will move around the Junior School with their children on a fun-filled exploration of the school, engaging in a variety of games and activities.
The day will include a series of interactive sessions where participants can join in on classroom activities, take part in sports and recreational games, and enjoy creative arts and crafts together.
Please mark your calendars and prepare for an afternoon of joy, laughter and fun. This is a day you will not want to miss, and we look forward to seeing you there.
Forest Edge is ready and waiting for our Year 3 students. Nestled in this 120-acre property surrounded by farmland, quiet rivers, fern gullies, old growth forests and mountain ranges. Students will get the opportunity to learn new skills on environmental walks and challenge themselves on the flying fox and ropes course.
This is one of the most memorable and exciting times on the 2024 calendar for the Year 3s.
This year, Middle School Father’s Day celebrations are heading to Luna Park. It will be a fun filled evening for both students and parents.
For further information and tickets please see Humanitix link here.
We have two exciting nights celebrating jazz on Monday 2 and Tuesday 3 September in an iconic performance venue in the heart of St Kilda; MEMO Music Hall. The Jazz Nights are an exciting opportunity to see our young musicians perform in a non-formal performance setting.
See more and get tickets here.
Recently, I was chosen to be part of the children’s chorus in the Melbourne production of TOSCA. I am very grateful that my voice teacher, Mrs McDowell believed in me and asked me to audition for this role.
The rehearsal schedules were hectic and went on for several weeks. I had to miss some school for the rehearsals but thanks to all my teachers, I was able to catch up on my work.
Being part of this production was an amazing experience for me. We were split into two casts (called Vatican and Colosseum) and each one performed on alternate nights. I made several new friends during this whole journey. I was privileged to listen to and perform alongside world renowned opera singers. We also got to perform alongside the incredible musicians of Orchestra Victoria.
This was my first experience outside of school in the field of performing arts and I am grateful to Haileybury for being so supportive of my endeavours.
Hugo Engele
Head of Newlands (Keysborough)
Come on down during Term 3 opening hours. If you didn’t know, there is now a puffer jacket available for Years 5–8.
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Friday, 26 July
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2.00 pm to 4.00 pm
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Saturday, 27 July
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9.00 am to 12.00 pm
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Friday, 2 August
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2.00 pm to 4.00 pm
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Saturday, 3 August
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9.00 am to 12.00 pm
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Friday, 16 August
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2.00 pm to 4.00 pm
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Friday, 23 August
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2.00 pm to 4.00 pm
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Saturday, 24 August
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9.00 am to 12.00 pm
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Friday, 30 August
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2.00pm to 4.00 pm
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Friday, 6 September
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9.00 am to 12.00 pm
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Friday, 13 September
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2.00 pm to 12.00 pm
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Saturday, 14 September
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9.00 am to 12.00 pm
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We are holding a volunteer training day on Saturday, 5 October for all new volunteers.
If you would like to join the team, please reach out on our Facebook.
Please join Mr Hugo Engele, Head of Newlands and Dr Nicholas Grigsby, Deputy Principal and Head of Haileybury Senior Schools for the HPFK meeting at 7.00 pm on Thursday 5 September at the Newlands Resource Centre.
This is a great opportunity to meet other parents in our community and all parents are welcome to join. Light refreshments will be provided.
Lenice Norris
President, Haileybury Parents & Friends Keysborough
Last month, we thoroughly enjoyed celebrating OHA Week at HRS. Our Senior School students enjoyed a range of interactive activities, including a silent disco, a photo booth, captivating presentations and a variety of delicious food trucks. The day provided awareness of the OHA brand and demonstrated to our students that the Haileybury community will always be there for them.
We concluded the day with a memorable Chapter dinner, welcoming alumni living in Darwin along with senior staff from HRS. One of the attendees was David Ray (OH 1990) and his daughter Grace (OH 2022) who kindly shared their story with us.
David Ray and his beautiful family moved to Darwin in late 2019. They were very pleased to have had daughter Grace and now also daughter Lydia enrolled at their father’s alma mater.
After some post-VCE travelling, Grace returned to Darwin in mid-2023 to pursue her interest in visual arts, craft and design. This year, Grace has combined those interests by commencing studies in Architectural Design at Charles Darwin University. Aiming to truly become a Territorian, Grace hopes to use those skills in designing appropriate housing for the tropics.
Since arriving in Darwin, David completed and published his doctoral dissertation on Conflict and Enmity in the Asaph Psalms (Tübingen: Mohr Siebeck, 2023). While working as a Chartered Accountant and serving on a number of risk management and audit committees in the not-for-profit and public sectors, David continues to pursue his research on ancient texts and traditions as a University Scholar at St Francis College, Milton, Queensland (University of Divinity).
Thank you, David and Grace, for staying connected. Once a Haileyburian, always a Haileyburian.
The Tasmanian Chapter dinner at the Landscape Restaurant in Hobart was a wonderful occasion. Our members had a fantastic time catching up with each other while enjoying a delicious three-course dinner. One of the reasons we love hosting events is when we receive positive and unsolicited feedback: “The best part of the night was networking and reflecting on our experience of the School and how it has changed.”
It was fascinating to hear from one of the attendees, Stuart McFadzean (OH 1991), whose journey after graduating is incredible.
Stuart joined the army and served for 10 years, specialising as a Parachute Rigger and Air Dispatch Officer. The Army introduced him to a range of diverse outdoor pursuits including adventure racing to Africa, sailing in the Pacific and on several climbing expeditions to New Zealand and Nepal. Many of these pursuits he continues to enjoy.
During Stuart’s last posting, he met his partner Melinda and they moved to Hobart in search of adventure and a more exciting lifestyle. According to Stuart, “There’s so much fun stuff to do in Tassie and within a short drive from your door, there is incredible wilderness, mountains, beaches and rivers.” They have built a beautiful home to European passive house standards of which they are immensely proud.
Stuart then joined the Australian Antarctic Division to work on a project to introduce fixed winged aircraft. One highlight was building Australia’s Wilkins Runway, the first ice runway to ever receive civil certifications. At the time, he viewed this as an exciting side project, a diversion from a more conventional career that he was sure he would be drawn into. He didn’t realise Antarctic operations would become his career and passion!
Stuart passionately believes that tourism, when done well, is essential for the ongoing protection of Antarctica. This is his 10th year with White Desert Antarctica where he leads operations. He brings both tourists and scientists in to experience Antarctica with the aim of ensuring the continent is valued, understood and protected. They do so with a far lighter footprint than government programs and he is delighted that they have pioneered many techniques to minimise environmental impact.
Recently, Stuart was fortunate to return to formal study, completing the General Management Program at Harvard. “Learning is a lifelong passion that began at Haileybury, and it was a great opportunity to test myself and keep abreast of global trends while living in Tassie,” he commented.
Thank you, Stuart, for staying connected. Once a Haileyburian, always a Haileyburian.
Information regarding all OHA events can be found here.
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Thursday, 22 August
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OHA Brighton Generations Breakfast
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Friday, 23 August
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Class of 1994 - 30 Year Reunion
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Sunday, 25 August
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Mornington Peninsula Lunch
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Sold out |
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Thursday, 12 September
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OHA London event
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Friday, 13 September
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Perth Chapter Dinner
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Friday, 4 October
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Golf Day
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Friday, 11 October
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Class of 1989 - 35 Year Reunion
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Saturday, 12 October
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Berwick Edrington Reunion
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Wednesday, 16 October
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OHA Foundation Archives event
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Friday, 18 October
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Class of 2004 - 20 Year Reunion
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Wednesday, 23 October
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OHA Canberra Chapter dinner
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Thursday, 24 October
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OHA Sydney Chapter evening
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Friday, 25 October
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Class of 1974 - 50 Year Reunion
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Friday, 25 October
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Clark Club Luncheon
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Thursday, 31 October
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OHA Brisbane Chapter dinner
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Friday, 1 November
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OHA Gold Coast Chapter dinner
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Friday, 8 November
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Class of 1999 - 25 Year Reunion
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Friday, 15 November
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Class of 2019 - 5 Year Reunion
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We love hearing what our OHA alumni are up to. Please submit your amazing stories here.
If you do not already, please follow the OHA on Facebook and Instagram. We also invite you to stay connected by subscribing to our monthly newsletter here.
Please note that the OHA Office is here for all members and we encourage you to reach out if required via stayconnected@haileybury.com.au or contact me on 9904 6615
Kylie Phillips
Development Office Operations Lead
Term 3 is a particularly momentous one for our Year 12 students as they count down their final weeks of coursework, completing their last SACs and preparing for their Units 3 and 4 examinations. It has been wonderful to see students supporting each other and making the most of the academic coaching and additional support on offer.
Year 12 students have also had a range of sessions with the Careers team to support them in preparing for their post-school pathways, including submission of VTAC applications. One-to-one sessions with our Careers counsellors are available and strongly encouraged for all our Year 12 students as they consider their options for future study, work pathways and beyond.
All Senior students are members of the Careers Canvas course, where they can find curated resources and book in a time to meet with our Careers team.
As pioneers in educational innovation, Haileybury Pangea staff engage regularly with the wider educational community to share insights and learn about the needs of schools, students and families across Australia.
In July, Pangea’s Digital Learning Leader Geoff Orton attended the Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association National Conference in Sydney, linking with parents and professionals who advocate for educational access for students living in remote areas across Australia.
We are also delighted to celebrate Haileybury Pangea teacher and Digital Learning Leader Dominika Kapustka, who was named Education Rising Star of the Year at the Australian Education Awards in August.
Haileybury staff will also present this month at EduTech and at CanvasCon — two of Australia’s largest educational technology events — about Haileybury’s innovative use of technology to enhance teaching and learning.
Joanna Baker
Head of Campus
Term 3 is always a time for hard work and consolidation of pre-existing knowledge as students move towards the completion of the curriculum in each of their subjects. The VCE trial examinations will be in Weeks 8 and 9. All School Assessed Coursework (SACs) for Units 3 and 4 studies will be completed by Week 8. This then allows teachers and students to focus on revision and examination practice throughout the September break and the early weeks of Term 4.
After months of planning and mounting excitement, the Year 11 Semi-formal was held on Thursday, 8 August. The stunning venue of Leonda by the Yarra was transformed into the perfect place for a celebration of the entire Year 11 cohort and teachers.
Memories made were marked by not only the professional photos, but also a playful photo booth with seemingly endless and hilarious prop options. Students carried themselves with immense class and respect throughout the event and ensured that it was a great night for everyone. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the cohort and their dedicated teachers, whose tireless efforts in organising and chaperoning the event were key to its success
Amica recently represented Australia in the Jiangmen International Futsal Cup in China. In a thrilling final against Mainland China, Australia emerged as champions, thanks in part to Mary’s stunning long-range goal from the halfway line. Amica’s skill and dedication were key to the team’s success, earning her recognition on the international stage. Her performance is a proud moment for Haileybury and a testament to her potential as a rising star in futsal.
The Duke of Edinburgh International Award is a youth development program run by Haileybury that empowers young people to expand their horizons and provides them with new opportunities. Throughout the program, students develop their resilience, creativity, courage and independence. This year, four students have achieved the remarkable Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, which requires at least 52 weeks of skills development, physical recreation and voluntary work.
Christian (Year 12) holds the bronze award and completed the gold award this year, with his activities including court/field sports, acoustic guitar and youth leadership. For his Cultural Exploration and Residential Project, Christian attended a French Cultural Program and a French Exchange.
Sofia (Year 12) completed all three levels of the award, following her Compass Award achievement – the Junior version of the Duke of Edinburgh award. For her Gold Award, Sofia participated in court sports, community leadership, and drumming. She trekked through the Annapurna Range in Nepal and helped install a library at a school in Nepal for her expedition and Residential Project.
Lucy (Year 12) has completed the bronze award, and this year achieved the gold award. She developed her skills in trumpet, gardening, hockey and volleyball, and participated in the Symphony Orchestra for her service. Lucy trekked through the Annapurna Range and assisted in installing a library at a Nepali school for her Adventurous Journey and Residential Project.
“My favourite part of the Duke of Ed Award was participating in the Haileybury Nepal trip last year, which counted as both my Gold Adventurous Journey and Residential Project. We had the opportunity to explore Pokhara and Kathmandu, hike across mountains with incredible views, volunteer at a local school by organising a library, teaching classes and painting murals, and meet lots of local people who shared insight into Nepal’s culture, language, and history. The trip was an extraordinary experience that taught me a lot about myself, and I am beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to partake in it.”Lucy (Year 12)
Ravin is a holder of the bronze award and achieved the gold award this year. He participated in swimming, gym activities, rock climbing, music and language. His services included school leadership, assisting the elderly and library committee work. Ravin completed the Great North Walk for his Adventurous Journey and attended a Residential Language course for his Residential Project.
“Duke Of Ed was a great opportunity for me to push my limits as a person and explore the world while developing personal and physical skills that will be extremely useful in the future. My adventurous journey was definitely the most memorable part of my award, because even though I dreaded the idea at first, I left as a changed and much more independent person, armed with newly forged friendships that'll last quite some time.”Ravin (Year 12)
The gold Award is an outstanding achievement requiring exceptional dedication and passion. Congratulations to all the gold recipients this year.
The award provides young people with opportunities to develop meaningful skills and contribute to our communities through leadership and service. The most meaningful takeaways from completing the award are the memories of grasping opportunities that you might otherwise have never been able to experience. More information about the award structure is available on the In2 Adventure Canvas course.
As part of the extra-curricular programs at Haileybury, Senior School students can take part in the end-of-year leadership residential program. This trip is during the Term 4 holidays and will be facilitated by Outward Bound at their national campus in Tharwa, ACT. The program provides Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award students with an opportunity to complete the Residential Project section of the award, however, can be attended by all Senior School students. Students will be expected to plan and work with a group where they can develop leadership, discipline, communication, and decision-making skills. Students will be spending three nights in cabins and one night in tents. Participants will be completing tasks including bushwalking, abseiling and many initiative exercises. Students will be accompanied by Outward Bound staff and one Haileybury staff member. More information is available on the In2 Adventure Canvas course.
“Travelling interstate and attending a public program alone seemed daunting at first, however that week was one the best experiences of my life. We were presented with a vast set of challenges throughout the week which as a group we attempted to overcome, whilst completing reflective activities. The highlight was camping on a hilltop with a campfire keeping us cosy.”Sunny (Year 11)
The DOE award is offered to all students that are 14 years old or older. If you have any enquiries email Ms Visick or check out the award website:
As part of the Library and Information week, MacGregor Library at Senior School Keysborough, hosted an Escape Room challenge designed to promote the library’s incredible resources and services while offering a fun and educational experience for everyone involved. It was themed around our beloved Axolotl, living in the science building. The escape room was crafted to test participants' problem-solving skills, teamwork, and knowledge about books, and the library. Students worked in teams to solve a series of puzzles and riddles, all while navigating through the wealth of information our library offers. The goal was to escape in the shortest time possible.
We are delighted to announce that the winners completed the escape room with an impressive time of 3 minutes and 35 seconds. Their outstanding teamwork and resourcefulness earned them $20 Wings Café vouchers each. Congratulations to Rachel, Raena, Jaya, and Isabella, all in Year 10, for their incredible achievement! A big thank you to our Library Committee, and everyone who participated to make this event a resounding success!
Dr Nicholas Grigsby
Deputy Principal
Head of Senior Schools
The final round of APS Winter Sport concluded on 3 August and on behalf of the Haileybury Sport Department, we would like to extend a special thanks to all our families, students and staff for a successful season of sport. Of particular note, our Boys First Basketball Team secured the 2024 APS Premiership. Congratulations to all team members, Team Manager Duncan Berg and coach Rhys Carter for guiding the team through the season undefeated.
On Friday 9 August, 32 Haileybury first team members were selected to represent the APS in their respective sports and take on the AGSV at Caulfield Grammar School. We would like to congratulate all players nominated initially for their outstanding seasons of sport and those selected for their high standard of skill, adaptability and sportsmanship they brought to the day of competition. Special mention to Kate, Keyaan, Isabella, Georgia, Ella, Alexandra, Mitchell, Angelina and Kevin who were named in captaincy roles on the day.
Congratulations to Bhanu (Year 10) and Thivyaa (Year 12) for being named in the Victorian Country emerging players U16 and U19 squads respectively.
Congratulations also to Madeline (Year 12) and Inakshi (Year 11) who have also been named in the U19 Victorian Metro emerging players’ squad.
This is a wonderful reward for our students in what is fast becoming a growing sport for girls at Haileybury.
Congratulations to Year 7 student Zara on being selected in the U15 Victoria representative team for lacrosse. Lacrosse is not a sport we hear a lot about but hopefully we will in the future as we follow Zara and her endeavours.
We now look forward to our spring season of sport getting underway and wish all our Dance and Aerobics Teams the best as they embark on National campaigns in the coming weeks. We look forward to sharing their results with you in the next edition.
Kylie Leys
Head of Haileybury Sport (Senior Girls)
In the spirit of reconciliation, Haileybury acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
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