From the Head of Junior School

It has been a tremendous end to the term with the last week being filled with celebrations of learning and community engagement.   

The Years 5 and 6 Concert Australian Made, was so much more than an annual showcase of music and dance; It was reflection of Australian history, culture, traditions and perhaps most importantly, country. The show opened with a performance of Solid Rock, written by Shane Howard, and closed with an incredible rendition of From Little Things, Big Things Grow written by Paul Kelly and Kev Carmody. Both pieces, accompanied by guest musician Mr Michael Connelly on the digeridoo, highlighted the connection to land experienced by Aboriginal Australians, and the opportunity we must enact transformative change through collective action.  

During National Reconciliation week, just six weeks ago, students in our Years 5 and 6 combined choir were introduced to the finale piece, From Little Things Big Things Grow, inspired by the story of the Gurindji strike, a pivotal event in a movement towards Aboriginal land rights legislation. Congratulations to the Music Team, led by Simon Varga, Junior School Music Coordinator. All students involved in the concert can be proud of being involved in something far greater than themselves, whether it was in a 50 strong xylophone ensemble, or a class dance troupe, or the combined Years 5 and 6 Choir.  A special shout out for Mr Julian Burke for his cameo in the Chamber Strings performance of Up there Cazaly!  

Beyond celebrating student progress in musical and dance pursuits, we have enjoyed a Year 3 Open Morning, a Year 2 Open Afternoon and a Year 5 Gold Rush exhibition. Students have loved welcoming their parents onto campus to share what they have learnt and achieved over the course of the last term.  

It would be remiss to not mention the success of the Junior School Friends of Saints inaugural DJ Bingo night. Thanks to all committee members, volunteers and attendees for making the event such a success. The atmosphere created by the creative costumes, all aptly linked to Australian Icons in the week of the Years 5 and 6 concert, was outstanding. Well done to the Sias, the Kylies, the Pat Cashes, the men from Snowy River, the table of Richie Benauds, the happy little Vegemites, the Bunnings Crew, the Wiggles (to my Captain Feather Sword), Bluey, Bingo, Kath Day and Kel Knight and so many more! It was a fabulous night of friend raising!  

As the term draws to a close, I wish you all a safe and restful holiday. I look forward to welcoming you and your sons back on campus for the commencement of Term 3 on Tuesday 25 July.  

Jasmine Taylor 
Head of Junior School  

Important Upcoming Term 3 Events