168¿ª½±¹ÙÍø

If you do not wish to cut your hair, you might also consider getting a group of friends together and perhaps hosting a morning tea with the object of raising funds to donate to a student or staff member who may be chopping off their ponytail. If you have any enquiries, please email Wendy Johnston, Director of Marketing and Communications, on wjohnston@stmargarets.qld.edu.au or call (07) 3862 0837.

I am currently reading a great book produced by the National Association of Independent Schools called ‘Hopes and Fears. Strengthening the Relationship with Today’s Independent School Parents.’ No doubt I will refer to more insights from this book in future newsletter articles.

Hopes and Fears has been written by two American school psychologists who refer to the last four years as ‘The Great Disruption’ caused by the pandemic; pervasive global tensions; and the changing social and political norms. I am glad that someone has applied an overarching term to the changing landscape in which schools are operating. The authors, Robert Evans and Michael Thompson, refer to the increased stress levels of everyone, since before the peak of COVID–19 and how this is impacting on schools. Forging and maintaining a strong relationship with our parents who have entrusted our educators with the vital task of teaching their children, within a very challenging time socially for everyone, is a task to which 168¿ª½±¹ÙÍø’s remains committed. I’m looking forward to reading the whole book and applying that knowledge to the 168¿ª½±¹ÙÍø’s context.

Ros Curtis

With new activities and pre-season training beginning, I thought it was timely to remind parents about our volunteering application processes. We acknowledge the important work that volunteers carry out within our school environment. Assistance, whether it is as a volunteer in the classroom, tuckshop, excursions, P&F activities or sporting carnivals, enhances the quality of your child’s teaching and learning experience.

If any parent is volunteering in the school, they must fill out the Volunteer Application form, found at the following link: Volunteering at 168¿ª½±¹ÙÍø's - 168¿ª½±¹ÙÍø's (stmargarets.qld.edu.au)  This link will give you all the information about volunteering, as well as the volunteer register link. All volunteers are required to complete the Volunteer Register form before commencing their volunteering engagement.Please note that each volunteer must fill out a new form each year, as the application is only valid for one calendar year.

Please also be aware that there is a Volunteer Code of Conduct available on

On Tuesday we had a special assembly for National Sorry Day. The students involved welcomed the assembly with an acknowledgement of country, a prayer and an address explaining what reconciliation week is. The students involved did a lot of preparation, even putting together words in their first language to introduce the assembly. We had an address by Wakka Wakka elder Eric Law AM, and our primary Belle Voci, Serenata and the secondary rock bank also performed.

Congratulations to all those students involved, it really was a moving ceremony.

Karen Gorrie

Sport brings people together and our differences and become points of celebration rather than division. In sport we honour the team, and the different skills that each person brings to the team. Ms Curtis opened the games, acknowledging that our presence at the games, the coming together from many different schools, cultures, and backgrounds, was a symbol of reconciliation more broadly.

“If I win, it's a bonus. If I lose, the sun still comes up the next day, and it's all good.”
- Ash Barty

It didn’t matter whether we won or lost, the games were a display of cooperation and teamwork, and staff and students left Windsor Park having learned more about Aboriginal Culture and the wisdom that the ancient cultures of Australia gift us.

A big thank you to Ms Helen Lobegeiger who coordinated the games, and to the team of staff and students who worked to make the games the success that they were. I also thank the students enrolled in the Certificate of Sport and Recreation course who assisted in running the day, including the important tasks of refereeing, and scoring.

Rev’d Jazz Dow

This year the clubs available to sign up to are:

Steak Club – This was one of the most popular clubs from last year. This is a fantastic opportunity for the girls to showcase their “product” from home with an onsite barbeque and tasting. There may even be the chance to head out to enjoy a great steak at one of the many steakhouses around Brisbane.

Styling Club – Allows the students with creative flair to help style various boarding events. The girls are given a theme for the event and can then let their imaginations run wild.  

Run Club – A new club on offer this year, it was introduced due to the increase in interest for girls to be able to go for a casual run or stroll. It is open to anyone who loves some exercise in the fresh air.

Book Club – Providing for a journey through the world of literature! Whether a voracious reader or just looking to pick up a new hobby, book club offers a warm and welcoming space to explore diverse genres, share thoughts, and connect with fellow book enthusiasts. Discover new favourites and visit beautiful libraries around Brisbane. 

Arts and Craft Club - Unleash your creativity by joining the arts and crafts club! It doesn’t matter the level of expertise, this club is the perfect place to explore various crafts, share techniques, and create beautiful projects. Enjoy inspiring workshops and fun group activities.

Baking Club - A delightful experience where the opportunity to mix, knead, and create delicious treats together is provided! For seasoned bakers or newbies, the baking club offers a friendly environment to share recipes, tips, and tasty creations. With fun, hands-on sessions and a supportive community, enhance baking skills and enjoy the sweet rewards.

Youth Club – Another new club this year is the church youth club! Offering a welcoming environment to make new friends, explore faith and on Sundays have the opportunity to visit a church service off campus. 

Boarding is all about putting yourself out there, making new friends and experiencing new things. Our boarding clubs provide the opportunity for all of this and more and we look forward to seeing the girls in action and having fun together.

Angela Crowe

On Tuesday, we marked the significance of Sorry Day and Mabo Day at our assembly, with some of our First Nations students sharing their language, stories of home and shared history. All students from Years 4-12 demonstrated their support and solidarity by wearing an Indigenous ribbon in their hair. On Monday, students and staff contributed to our whole school artwork by writing what Reconciliation means to them on a strip of coloured paper. The artwork was constructed by students across various grades during Morning Tea and Lunchtime on Tuesday. It is now proudly displayed in front of the Chapel Altar.

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

Caitlin McCluskey

For each subject there is a list of the course content, marks for the criteria assessed, a table showing the distribution of achievement levels within the subject, an assessment of your daughter’s attitude to her learning. The academic ratings are based on the assessment completed throughout Semester 1.

As girls from Years 7 to 12 have been part of the Continuous Reporting process, there are no comments for each subject. For specific comments please refer back to Continuous Reporting via the Learning Analytics Parent Portal. Girls in all year levels are encouraged to read their comments carefully. These remarks contain advice designed to assist the girls to develop their skills and improve their future outcomes. Ideally, students should review their reports with their parents just prior to beginning Semester 2. In this way, they can use them to set some specific learning goals.

The GPA graph contains a number which is rounded down to the nearest 0.2 increment. It is also important to be mindful of the fact that curriculum becomes more demanding from year to year and that a decline in outcomes in Semester 1 can be quite usual. This is particularly the case from Year 10 to Year 11. The most significant information about a student’s learning progress can be gained by comparing outcomes from Semester 1 to Semester 2, within a calendar year.

Should you have any questions regarding your daughter’s report, please contact the Dean of Studies’ office on 3862 0703 when school resumes in Term 3.

Chris Dunn

As teachers, we often ask our students ‘what are you grateful for?’ Gratitude is a transformative force in the lives of students, shaping their outlook, resilience, and overall wellbeing. Cultivating a sense of gratitude among students is essential for fostering positive attitudes, enhancing academic performance, and nurturing a supportive school culture.

Gratitude promotes a positive mindset by shifting students' focus from what they lack to what they have. In a society often characterized by comparisons and aspirations for more, cultivating gratitude encourages students to appreciate the present moment and the opportunities it offers. This shift in perspective not only reduces stress and anxiety but also fosters a greater sense of contentment and fulfillment.

Moreover, gratitude strengthens relationships and fosters a sense of belonging within the school community. When students express gratitude towards their teachers, peers, and support staff, they not only acknowledge the efforts of others but also build connections based on mutual respect and appreciation. These positive relationships create a supportive environment where students feel valued, understood, and motivated to excel.

Furthermore, gratitude cultivates resilience and emotional intelligence, essential skills for navigating the challenges of academic and personal life and their future careers. By acknowledging the support they receive and the obstacles they overcome, students develop a sense of agency and self-efficacy. This resilience enables them to persevere in the face of setbacks, learn from adversity, and ultimately thrive academically and personally.

Gratitude is a powerful tool for enhancing the wellbeing and success of students. By fostering a culture of gratitude within schools, educators empower students to embrace positivity, build meaningful relationships, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace. I would also encourage parents to also ask their daughters what they are grateful for each day. It is an absolute delight to hear what our students are grateful for and their responses are more often their family, friends, teachers and a good education!

Nikki Townsend

Events and organisation

Last Friday, May 25th, our Prefect body were excited to host our very first Live on the Drive on Circular Drive, a 2024 initiative designed to enhance school spirit through live performances, chalk drawings, and sweet treats. Our incredible rock bands performed well-known hits and a highly anticipated "Surprise Song," which had all the girls singing along enthusiastically. We hope to see you at another Live on the Drive before the end of the year!

Rose, Caitlin, Skye, Millie.

Academic engagement

As exam season is quickly approaching, the E-Learning and Academic Engagement prefects have been diligently working to ensure students are ready and prepared for the upcoming assessment period. Our primary goals are to teach girls how to organise their study schedules and to help them learn effective study techniques. To achieve this, we have created a tutoring program where students can sign up for sessions with one of the prefects. These sessions take place at lunchtime, providing personalised assistance with homework and study. We aim to support the younger grades, helping them to understand and enjoy their schoolwork, fostering a positive and productive learning environment.

Hilary, Tiffany, Lucy K, Lucy S

Health, wellbeing and environmental

Within the Health, Wellbeing, and Environmental portfolio, we have some exciting plans on the horizon. We, along with the pre-preps, will be planting native Australian plants in their garden! Our goal is to educate these students on how the natural environment protects and preserves our world. This fun and hands-on activity will not only beautify the garden but also instil a sense of environmental responsibility in our young students. Stay tuned for more details and support us in this enriching experience!

Jordi, Annie, Ava, Danielle

One of the most compelling topics of conversation at the conference was Jonathan Haidt's thought-provoking book, ‘The Anxious Generation’. This book delves into the increasing levels of anxiety among young people today and identifies two major issues, the decline of play-based childhood and the rise of phone-based childhood. I would like to address the first issue- the decline in child-based play and its profound implications.

Haidt argues that unstructured, child-initiated play is not just a way for children to pass the time; it is a crucial component of their development. Through play, children learn essential life skills such as problem-solving, negotiation, and resilience. Play encourages creativity and independence, allowing children to explore the world around them and discover their own capabilities.

In recent years, however, there has been a noticeable decline in the amount of time children spend playing freely. Several factors contribute to this trend, including increased screen time, more structured extracurricular activities, heightened academic pressures and parental overprotection.  Haidt points out that this reduction in playtime is linked to rising levels of anxiety and depression among children, as they miss out on the benefits that come from spontaneous, imaginative play.

The value of play cannot be overstated, particularly for children of primary school age. It is during these formative years that children develop critical social and emotional skills. Through play, they learn to manage their emotions, interact with others, and build friendships. These experiences are foundational for their overall well-being and future success.

Younger children benefit from play with mixed ages as learning is deepened from learning something beyond their current abilities from slightly older children. Our playground, cluster program and weekly house meetings provide opportunities for these interactions.

Once basic skills have been mastered in early childhood, children need to be offered more social challenges. It is best to offer experiences of doing things together rather than being connected to technology. Haidt also suggests that children need experiences in the real world which encourage them to step outside their comfort zone, while adults stand on the sideline and support rather than overprotect. Without these opportunities, children will not develop the coping mechanisms and resilience needed to navigate challenges. Play and real-life experiences provide a safe environment for children to express themselves, take risks, and build confidence. This term will conclude with a week of activities (Camp, Care and Community Week) which will provide different challenges and play opportunities for all year levels. Years 5 and 6 girls are developmentally ready to head away from home and meet the social learning challenges camp has to offer. I will discuss this and details about the week, next week.  

At our school, we recognise the importance of play in fostering a balanced and healthy development for all our students, and we are particularly mindful of the needs of our girls. We are committed to ensuring that our children have ample opportunities for free play, both during school hours and in their extracurricular activities. We believe that by promoting a play-rich environment, we can help our students develop into well-rounded, resilient individuals.

Angela Drysdale

Through the adventures of Pago, the baby sea turtle, Briggs shed light on the pressing issue of plastic pollution in our oceans. In Australia alone, a staggering 130,000 tonnes of plastic enter the marine environment annually, posing a grave threat to marine life like turtles. Briggs highlighted how turtles often mistake plastic for food, leading to blocked digestive systems, fatal infections, and other devastating consequences.

After captivating the students with her reading, Briggs led them in an art activity inspired by the vibrant world of Pago, fostering a love for reading, creativity, and environmental awareness. The visit not only entertained but also shared an important message about the impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems.

Kate Frewin

It was the first time that 168¿ª½±¹ÙÍø’s had participated in the Decathlon in a long time, so the team was a little unsure what was in store for them. All they knew was that the Decathlon was designed to celebrate the academic gifts of Australian youth by providing a stimulating and challenging competition run in the spirit of an Olympic Decathlon. This meant competing in teams of eight across 10 disciplines: engineering, mathematics, code breaking, art and poetry, science, English, ideation, creative producers, cartography, and legacy…and this is all in one day. After months of training during lunchtimes, and a practice day, the team were ready for anything.

This year there were 26 Year 6 teams from schools across the Brisbane metro area vying for the number one spot. After making our way to the event and being formally welcomed by Nudgee College, it was straight to work. The girls knew they had to work hard as a team and play to their strengths. After three gruelling sessions, their brains and resilience had been pushed to the brink. As the final scores were tallied, they were treated to a performance from Nudgee's amazing rock band. It was nerve-racking as the girls heard the presenter call out the names of schools one by one, but we remained hopeful. They were delighted to discover they had been placed first in the English category, an enormous achievement in such a competitive pool. The girls are to be congratulated for this outstanding achievement. It was truly a wonderful day to remember, and we hope to compete again next year.

Clayton Howard, Team Coordinator and Year 5 Teacher

Live on the Drive

Congratulations to Rock Bands who performed last Friday as part of our ‘Live on the Drive’ celebration. All three rock bands gave fantastic performances with a huge number of students in attendance. Thank you to all students who contributed to the performances and to Mr Gillespie for preparing the bands for the event.

Reconciliation Assembly

Congratulations to our students who performed at our special Reconciliation Week assembly acknowledging National Sorry Day and Mabo Day. Serenata and Belle Voce joined forces to perform Reconciliation Now to commence the assembly. They also gave a special performance of Blackfella/Whitefella by the Warumpi Band accompanied by the Year 9 music class. This song was sung by school choirs around the country this week as an initiative of Reconciliation Australia. Thank you to all who performed and thank you to Ms Brennan and Ms Walker for putting the performances together.

Mayo Festival T-Shirts

It is with great excitement that 168¿ª½±¹ÙÍø’s is preparing for the upcoming Mayo Festival to be held on Saturday 27 July. This will be a day filled with musical entertainment along with the opportunity to explore artisan stalls, food trucks, rides and other fun activities. It has become a tradition for all our music students who are performing to wear a Mayo t-shirt on the day. It helps to create a wonderful festive atmosphere, and the t-shirt is a lovely memento for the girls to keep after the event. We are asking all students to purchase the t-shirt via Parent Lounge by Friday 7 June at a cost of $25. Primary students are required to confirm t-shirt sizes in the Primary office where a list of all students and their respective t-shirt sizes will be collated. Secondary students are asked to check the t-shirt sizing guide (attached in Parent Lounge) and confirm the required size when making the purchase. (If students are unsure of sizing, they may go to the Primary Reception where t-shirts will be available to try on). We look forward to the Mayo Festival being a wonderful experience for our school community!

Australian Honours Ensemble Program

Congratulations to Emily (Year 9, Oboe), Amelie (Year 10, Bassoon) and Tram (Year 8 Cello) who have been accepting into the Australian Honours Ensemble Program. This is a highly competitive program with students required to submit video auditions as part of the election process. AHEP brings together the top musicians from around the country to work with well remounted conductors to perform high level repertoire. AHEP will be held in September at the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University. Well done to these students on this fantastic achievement!

Music Support Group

The next Music Support Group meeting will be held on Tuesday 4 May 2024 at 5:00pm in the Circular Drive Classroom 01 (in front of the Arts Centre Foyer). We encourage parents from both primary and secondary schools to become involved.

Brad King

Congratulations to our talented Water Polo players:

• Adelaide B (Year 9), Annabelle S (Year 9), Ruby C (Year 9), Danica G (Year 8), Clementine C (Year 8), Lucy B (Year 8), who have been selected within the 14 & Under Queensland Development teams that will contest the 2024 East Coast Challenge.
• Alice S (Year 7) and 168¿ª½±¹ÙÍø’s Lead Coach, Zac Hudson have been selected to represent within the 13 & Under Queensland Development teams that will contest the National Development Carnival.
• Cosette C (Year 11), Lucy S (Year 10), Bless D (Year 10) who have been selected within the 17&U Girls Emerging Athletes Program, which facilitates the refinement of advance skills and provides them with the opportunity for higher competition at the National Championships and Tri series.

We congratulate this group of students and look forward to following their achievements later in the year.

•              Congratulations to Swimmer Mena Bertinato who after her strong performances at the Australian Age Swimming Championships has been selected in the Swimming Queensland touring team that will contest the New Zealand Short Course Championships in August. We look forward to following Mena’s results.

We would like to continue to recognise the outstanding achievements and representation of students’ participating at a national level, outside of the school sport pathway. I look forward to continuing to hear from our community regarding such outstanding achievement. Please email lknight@stmargarets.qld.edu.au.

Latest Sport News and Information

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

• QGSSSA Hockey -
• QGSSSA Netball -
• QGSSSA Tennis -
• QGSSSA Volleyball -
• Athletics -
• Rowing -
• Rhythmic Gymnastics -
• Club Netball -
• Club Swimming -

Lloyd Knight

We have fun-filled and exciting activities planned for our June/July Holiday Program. Further details of the program can be found here (PDF 323.8KB). Boys and girls, siblings, friends and family welcome!

Please refer to the attached Information Guide for full booking terms and conditions. We are unable to accept bookings via email or text message. The OSHC registration and Debitsuccess form must be completed, signed and sent back to us to finalise your booking. Please read the information guide carefully as some information has changed. OSHC Registration and Debitsuccess can be completed via the My Family Lounge.

PLEASE COMPLETE YOUR VACATION CARE BOOKING FORM VIA THE MY FAMILY LOUNGE APP

We are very excited to inform you that 168¿ª½±¹ÙÍø’s OSHC has subscribed to a fantastic online Booking and Waitlist management program called QK Enrol. This program will give you access to manage your own account information, where you will have the ability to make bookings requests and allows you to complete and submit an online enrolment form for your child. You can do this and much, much more all within a parent portal called ’My Family Lounge’.

How do I log in?

Please navigate to the link below and either sign in with your existing My Family Lounge account or Register for an account if you do not already have one. Please note all families who have previously submitted an enrolment form will have an account already set up; all you will need to do is click ‘forgotten password’ and use the email address you used to receive this form.

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

What is the cost?*

Fees: $68 per day*

Bookings close: 7 June 2024

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

What are the hours of operation?

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

How can I obtain more information?

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

Palu Ingram

Emma is the Chief Executive Partner (CEP) of Clayton Utz - a leading Australian law firm, and recently celebrated 25 years with the firm.

Emma has deep expertise in the energy sector in Australia and New Zealand, and has advised major energy companies and supported new entrants establish themselves in the Australian energy market.

Prior to being appointed CEP, Emma was the Deputy CEP from 2020 to 2023, a Clayton Utz Board Member from 2017 to 2022, and has been a Partner of the firm since 2007. Emma was on the Queensland Symphony Orchestra Board from 2017 until late last year and is a member of Chief Executive Women.

Event Details

Date:               Tuesday 20 August 2024
Time:             6.45am arrival for 7.00am - 8.45am
Location:        Arts Centre Foyer, 168¿ª½±¹ÙÍø's Anglican Girls School, 11 Petrie Street, Ascot
Format:          Sit down breakfast  
Tickets:           $85 Adult, $40 Student (Years 10-12/Tertiary). 
Corporate tables: $850 (10 seats), includes company logo displayed on table and acknowledgement during event.
To purchase tickets: 

We thank our series sponsors, Major Sponsor: , Supporting Sponsors: , , , and .

P&F Secondary Father Daughter Breakfast - Reminder

A friendly reminder that students in Years 7-12 and their fathers are warmly invited to join us for the P&F Secondary Father Daughter Breakfast.

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

Due to the popularity of this event, we are delighted to announce that we have been able to increase the number of tickets available in 2024.

Tickets are available to purchase online: 

Date:               Thursday 13 June 2024

Time:              6:45am for a 7:00am start. Concludes at 8:00am

Venue:            Circular Drive and Arts Centre Terraces

Cost:               $45 per adult /$35 per student (Years 7-12). This is a stand-up event, with a hot breakfast offering, fruit and yoghurt cups, tea, coffee and orange juice.

RSVP:             9.30am, Thursday 6 June 2024, unless sold out prior.

Enquiries:       p&f@stmargarets.qld.edu.au