25 Jun 2015
Our school motto is Aspire to Wisdom. The definition of wisdom is ‘the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgement; the quality of being wise'. These are sound qualities that suggest more than the simple attainment of an educational credential. We value all the characteristics that could otherwise be defined as good citizenship. We see that in abundance here at GRC Penshurst Girls Campus as you will see in the reports that follow.
This term has been spectacular when looked at as a microcosm of how our school community values and displays the qualities of our school motto. Our Centenary of ANZAC ceremony was held early in the term and was an incredibly moving and poignant event that was a credit to all involved. Former students who are currently serving in the defence forces joined us via Skype and shared their stories of national pride and what ANZAC means to them. The support, as always, of the Penshurst Sub Branch of the RSL, was much appreciated and helped students comprehend the significance and reality of service, as well as the formation of our national identity. Mrs Chochula also accompanied our students to the Hyde Park service, as well as to the local Penshurst service.
Our Social Justice committee has also been active in raising money for a variety of charities, and has contributed to the raising of school spirit through their Dance Off and Talent Show. School staff had a surprise of their own at the end of the Talent Show when they took to the stage and performed a choreographed dance to the song Happy. Little did students know that we had been secretly practising for weeks. I would like to thank Ms Samuels and Ms Fox for organising us all. The look of surprise on the girls' faces, as well as the cheers and laughter, was well worth it and will be an enduring memory that all who were there will remember for a long time.
I would also like to farewell Ms Martinuzzi. Ms Martinuzzi came to us from GRC Oatley Senior Campus at the beginning of the year to step into the role of Deputy Principal responsible for Years 8 and 10. In the time she was with us she worked tirelessly with students and staff. She made strong connections with students and their families and I know our school community valued her patience and her compassion. Ms Martinuzzi has been appointed as the Nirimba Collegiate Deputy Principal and we wish her well in this new chapter of her career.
Following a state-wide merit selection process, Ms Martinuzzi has been replaced by Mrs Bronwyn Cooper. Mrs Cooper has come to us from Beverly Hills Girls High School, as Stage 6 Deputy Principal and Head Teacher English. Mrs Cooper is settling in well and is making a positive and constructive difference in the role of Deputy Principal.
This term we have also farewelled one of our music teachers, Mrs Sandi Bell. Mrs Bell has retired after more than 30 years' service to public education in New South Wales. It was an honour and a privilege to present Mrs Bell with her retirement medal at our recent Creative and Performing Arts Formal Assembly. Mrs Bell's dedication to our school has been seen in her endless commitment to the performing arts. She has directed numerous musical productions and coordinated countless extra curricula musical ensembles. She has supported our partner Primary Schools when they have staged their annual productions with us. Nothing has ever been too much trouble for her. I know I speak on behalf of our entire school community when I thank her for her service and wish her well in this new and exciting phase of life.
I wish the entire school community a restful and rejuvenating break.
Ms Noeline Ross
Principal