eNews Archive Issue 5 - 22 February 2024

One of the great aspects of the 91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret’s community is that the key stakeholder groups – the P&F Association, the Foundation and the Old Girls’ Association, are all aligned with the strategic direction of the school and the work of the School Council. The funds raised from the P&F, not only go to support the plans of the support groups, but also to assist in increasing the funds to improve the school’s built environment and to support financial needs-based bursaries. Therefore, a purchase of a raffle ticket, participation in an auction and attendance at an event contributes to the growth of the facilities of the school and the quality of the student experience.

Just another reminder about Open Day on 9 March. It is a compulsory day for all students and all parents are very welcomed to attend. We understand that some students will have unavoidable clashes or significant reasons why they cannot attend on that day. If this is the case for your daughter, we require a letter indicating her inability to attend. Open Day is an enjoyable day for the students – where they engage in activities and/or performances to showcase the school to our visitors. If you know of anyone considering enrolling their daughter at 91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret’s, please invite them to come to the school on this day to see the school in action from 9.30am to 12.30pm.

I look forward to seeing you there!

Ros Curtis

It is important to distinguish between stress and being busy. Many of our students are now balancing their school work with other commitments such as music, sport and clubs as well as time to socialise with friends and spend time with their family. It can be difficult at times, but sitting down with family or with their Academic Advisor and Head of Year to schedule times appropriately to each of their commitments can help bring organisation and clarity to the day and relieve the feeling of stress.

91ÇÑ×Óress can be beneficial, if the right dose is found. 91ÇÑ×Óress is our body’s response to a challenge. The key to good stress is to be challenged enough in something that can lead to growth and eventually mastery. That is the reason that teachers set challenging but doable tasks, to ensure that students are able to practice what they already know but also learn more and progress their skills. If tasks are too easy, a student cannot grow. Moderate amounts of stress can boost learning, memory, performance and resilience.

It is timely for our students to revisit their goals that they made at the beginning of the year. Goals are useful for students of all ages. With the recent Primary Parent Teacher Interviews and the upcoming Secondary Parent Teacher Interviews, I’m sure goals for your daughter’s learning has been a topic of discussion. If not, it would be worth discussing these with them and talking through what is going well and what she needs to develop further.

Goal-setting is an important step in striving for improvement; they provide direction and purpose. 91ÇÑ×Óudents should ensure that their goals are S.M.A.R.T. goals.

Specific goals are easier to accomplish. Whilst many students may say they wish to achieve a certain grade for their subjects, it would be better to hone in on a particular skill in order for that to occur. For example, using criteria from a subject as the skill that they would like to improve would be beneficial.

Goals need to be Measureable. Checking in to see if targets have been met with feedback on improvement being sought and supplied, will identify achievement and help encourage the student to continue to strive for more improvement.

Make sure the goal is Attainable. Almost any goal is attainable when a person plans their steps towards achieving that goal wisely. Reaching those milestones will provide positive affirmation and ensure they remain on track to achieve the ultimate goal.

Relevant goals ensure that improvement is sought for something that needs improvement.

Timebound goals provide a deadline for actions to occur to see movement towards improvement.

Deadlines need to be given short timeframes to ensure step-by-step progress is made.

Karen Gorrie

There is a profound exchange between Barbie and Ruth Handler, where Barbie (the Created) asks Ruth (the Creator) for permission to become human. Ruth responds by telling Barbie that she doesn’t need her permission because Ruth doesn’t control Barbie, implying Barbie has the freedom to make choices and be exactly who she is, making discoveries, dealing with the existential realities, and the many consequences of this choice and freedom. It is clear in the exchange that the Creator loves the Created.

In class, we discussed this as a metaphor on the relationship between God (The Creator) and humanity (Created). God is love and created humanity with complete freedom. God does not control us; we have the freedom to act and be in the way that we decide. With this free will comes responsibility, consequences and, at times, pain. As humans, we can hurt one another, and we ourselves can be hurt. While God created us to be free and make choices, Jesus has provided us with an ethic of love for how to choose our actions so that we show love and compassion in the world, rather than putting our own needs above others.

Over the remainder of the term, we will use our 91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret’s Values to reflect on the power of our choices and the effects our choices and actions can have on our own lives and on the lives of those around us.

Jazz Dow

The annual Swimming Carnival is a much-anticipated event, bringing together students from all houses for a day of spirited competition and camaraderie. In 2024, the school has introduced a significant change by organising events based on year level categories, enhancing participation and fostering a sense of belonging among peers. The addition of novelty relays adds an extra layer of fun and excitement, ensuring that every student feels engaged and involved in this beloved tradition.

The Year 12 Formal, a pinnacle milestone moment in a young woman’s life, unfolded against the enchanting backdrop of the 91ÇÑ×Ó Lucia Golf Club. Illuminated by twinkling lights, the evening radiated a magical atmosphere, providing the seniors with a moment to celebrate their achievements, reflect on cherished memories, and embark on the next chapter of their lives with fondness and optimism. Parents, witnessing the transformation of their daughters from little girls to confident and poised young women; the journey of growth and self-discovery is truly remarkable. Their heartfelt reflections serve as a testament to the nurturing environment and supportive community that define the experience at our school.

Beyond the campus walls, students have the opportunity to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of the surrounding area. Trips to the Eumundi Markets are a highlight, where students immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, savouring delicious treats, admiring handmade treasures, and enjoying live performances. Similarly, visits to Eat 91ÇÑ×Óreet Markets provide a unique culinary experience, where students indulge in delectable cronuts (croissant and donut) and connect with peers from other boarding schools.

By Week 5, our new boarders have seamlessly integrated into the rhythms of boarding and day school life. They've established school routines, forming lasting friendships and embracing the sense of belonging that defines our community. As they navigate their journey of growth and discovery, our dedicated staff and supportive environment ensure that they feel valued, empowered, and inspired to reach their full potential.

In addition, our wonderful facilities staff at 91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret’s have planted several gardenias in the Eton Courtyard. As these beautiful flowers bloom, they not only enhance the existing lush greenery but also provide a delightful aroma that creates a sense of tranquillity and serenity.

At 91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret’s, boarding is more than just a place to reside—it's a vibrant community where students thrive, learn and grow together. From exciting events to meaningful connections, every aspect of boarding life is designed to nurture the holistic development of our students and create lifelong memories.

Kelli Boucaut

• Prioritise tasks. Identify the most important and urgent tasks and allocate time accordingly. Ideally, if tasks are prioritised correctly then important tasks will end up being completed BEFORE they become urgent. This helps to reduce the potential for late nights before exams or assignment submissions.
• Minimise distractions. Social media is the number one distraction for adolescents. If having the phone out of the room for homework and study sessions isn’t an option, try downloading an app like Flora or Forest to block access to your phone for periods of time to help you focus.
• Take regular breaks. Short, regular breaks are so important to maintaining effective focus. During a break, students should get up from their desk and move. A few star jumps or squats are all it takes to get the blood moving and oxygen into the brain. Drinking plenty of water is also beneficial.

Implementation of the above strategies can help students to optimise their productivity, reduce stress and achieve academic success.

“Surround yourself with people who always challenge you to do your best. Keeping friends around you with similar goals who you can learn, study and stress with makes life so much easier.” – Alana Breed, ‘23

Caitlin McCluskey

Next Tuesday 27 February, both year levels will also undertake a Practice NAPLAN Test in Eton Hall.

For the tests, girls are reminded that they must bring:

• wired headphones (no Bluetooth earphones or AirPods)
• fully charged laptops
• pens/pencils

If any parents have any questions or concerns about the NAPLAN testing process, please feel free to contact my office on 07 3862 0703.

Years 9 and 10 91ÇÑ×Óudy Hall

In Years 9 and 10, students will have 91ÇÑ×Óudy Hall days scheduled into every term. During these days, normal classes are suspended for these year levels, and students may have examination and performance assessments scheduled (please refer to your daughter’s Assessment Calendar on the POD).

When girls are not sitting assessment during 91ÇÑ×Óudy Hall, they are afforded time to undertake independent study, where they can continue with other schoolwork and assessments.

Term 1 91ÇÑ×Óudy Hall dates are as follows:

91ÇÑ×Óudy Hall schedules have been made available to students this week through the Years 9 and 10 POD Pages.

Chris Dunn

We would very much appreciate your support in publicising the event to friends and colleagues who may be interested in seeking a 91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret’s education for their daughter.

Furthermore, Saturday 9 March is a day when we require all of our students to be present at school, in full uniform and either participate in curricular, co-curricular or community activities. 91ÇÑ×Óudents should arrive no later than 9.15 am for the activities.

If, due to extenuating circumstances, a student is unable to be at school on Open Day, we require a written note or email requesting absence to studentleave@stmargarets.qld.edu.au.

Nikki Townsend

As we are aware, both from this presentation and reports in the media, online safety is not an area limited to teenagers; children of all ages need to be educated in this area. The school is committed to this through being recognised as an eSmart accredited school, but parents have a huge role to play in online education too.

While the internet and the game Roblox can have positive benefits for all ages, it can also expose young people to a range of risks, like harmful content, contact with strangers or missing out on physical activity. 

Four simple messages can help children develop online safety:

1. Be safe
2. Be kind – only write what you would say to someone’s face
3. Ask for help – build the habit of students asking for help
4. Make good choices - talk about the best things to watch to help develop critical thinking skills. Develop strategies to help children transition to offline activities to encourage self-regulation of time spent online.

Parents can support a child’s positive online experiences by…

• Playing together and managing access – play alongside children when encountering new games or apps
• Protecting their privacy – consider your child’s digital footprint before you share images of them on social media and check privacy settings on your account to ensure you are only sharing with people you know and trust
• Establishing good habits – check the technology habits you are modelling. Establish routines that manage screen time, define device-free places (bedrooms). Set up the habit of talking with a trusted adult about the things they see and do using technology.

I recommend that you use the suggested advice. We will continue to educate at school and together, we can help create a safe online world for your daughter.   

Angela Drysdale

• Make time to read together every day – at least 15 minutes per day.
• Read together in a place without distractions like television or computers.
• If it is a new book, look through it together first and discuss what it might be about.

With younger children:

• Explain that all books have a title and an author, how to hold a book, that we turn the pages from the front to the back, and we read the words from left to right down the page.
• Point out letters in words and talk about their sounds.
• Include books with an interesting variety of words to develop vocabulary. Talk about the meaning of new or unfamiliar words.

With older children:

• Choose books for shared reading that are more challenging than your daughter is capable of reading on her own, which will expose her to words, ideas, themes, and concepts that will contribute to her vocabulary, and general knowledge.
• Alternate books by contemporary authors with books by classic authors like Rudyard Kipling, CS Lewis, and Enid Blyton.
• Encourage your daughter to be more adventurous in her book choices.
• Speak to your daughter about her Accelerated Reader progress, what are her goals and how many points does she need to reach them this term?
• Don’t insist on finishing a book if she is not enjoying it after the first few chapters. Put it aside and maybe come back to it another time.

Kate Frewin

Circular Drive 91ÇÑ×Óage

9:30am             Sculthorpe 91ÇÑ×Óring Quartet                                

9:45am             Amati 91ÇÑ×Órings                           

10:00am           91ÇÑ×Óradivari 91ÇÑ×Órings                                              

10:15am           Chamber 91ÇÑ×Órings                      

10:30am           Chorale                                                           

10:40am           Volare                         

10:50am           Encorah                                              

11:45am           Exultate

11:55am           Music Ext Perf

12:00pm           Highly 91ÇÑ×Órung                                       

12:10pm           Rock Band (Mon)                                             

12:20pm           Rock Band (Tues)

Eton Hall

9:30am             Chaseley Concert Band                                                

9:45am             Sister Helen Wind Symphony                                       

10:00am           Jackson Wind Ensemble                                   

10:20am           Elayne Jones Percussion Ensemble                                            

10:35am           91ÇÑ×Óage Band                                                       

11:45am           Speech & Drama Presentation                                      

12:10pm           Serenata                                                          

12:20pm           Belle Voce       

Toorak Courtyard

11:00am           Flute Ensemble                                                            

11:10am           Clarinet Ensemble       

11:20am           Saxophone Ensemble                           

11:30am           Brass Ensemble

Primary Atrium

11:15am           Beath 91ÇÑ×Óring Quartet

Performance Uniforms

91ÇÑ×Óudents are required to wear a performance uniform for some senior auditioned music ensembles. 91ÇÑ×Óudents are encouraged to purchase the uniform as soon as possible at the School Supply Shop in preparation for Open Day (9 March). Music ensemble uniform requirements are as follows:

Choral Ensembles:

Serenata, Belle Voci, Chorale, Encorah: School middy

Volare, Exultate: Black performance uniform with white ribbon and black shoes (ballet flats). (Volare and Exultate students may remain in their black performance uniform when performing in Encorah).

Band Ensembles:

Chaseley Concert Band, Jackson Wind Ensemble: School middy

Saxophone/Clarinet/Flute/Brass/Elayne Jones Percussion Ensembles and 91ÇÑ×Óage Band: School middy

Sister Helen Wind Symphony: Black performance uniform with black shoes (ballet flats). (Sister Helen Wind Symphony students may remain in their black performance uniform when performing in Saxophone/Clarinet/Flute/Brass/Elayne Jones Percussion Ensembles and 91ÇÑ×Óage Band).                                  

91ÇÑ×Óring Ensembles:

Tutti 91ÇÑ×Órings, Amati 91ÇÑ×Órings, Beath 91ÇÑ×Óring Quartet, 91ÇÑ×Óradivari 91ÇÑ×Órings:  School middy

Chamber 91ÇÑ×Órings, Sculthorpe 91ÇÑ×Óring Quartet: Black performance uniform with white ribbon and black shoes (ballet flats). (Chamber 91ÇÑ×Órings students may remain in their black performance uniform when performing in 91ÇÑ×Óradivari 91ÇÑ×Órings.)

Rock Bands:

Highly 91ÇÑ×Órung: School middy

Secondary Rock Bands: Smart blue jeans, sneakers and ‘M Factor’ polo shirt, and hair tied back with school ribbon.

All performance uniform items are available for purchase through the School Supplies Shop.

Music Support Group

The next Music Support Group meeting will be held on Tuesday 5 March 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

Our dedicated sport staff and teacher coordinators are on hand to support with any questions you may have related to the program.

Interhouse Swimming

Yesterday, our secondary school community came together for a day of spirited competition and camaraderie at the Interhouse Swimming Carnival. This year’s event was a resounding success, showcasing not only the athletic talents of our students but also the vibrant interhouse spirit that defines our school.

A notable deviation from previous years was the restructuring of competitions by year levels, fostering friendly rivalries and encouraging participation among peers. This adjustment injected an extra layer of excitement into the proceedings, as students pushed themselves to excel alongside their classmates.

Adding to the festivities was the introduction of innovative novelty events such as the water polo relay and noodle relay, which were met with enthusiasm and keen participation. These events provided a refreshing twist to the traditional swimming races, fostering a sense of enjoyment and inclusivity among participants.

One of the most memorable aspects of the carnival was undoubtedly the traditional house march on. Each house took to the stage with flair, showcasing their unity, energy, and creativity in representing their house of the year ahead. Tennyson ‘Throw Backs’ were the victorious march on house of the day.

As the day drew to a close, it was clear that the Interhouse Swimming Carnival had once again succeeded in bringing our school community together in celebration of the spirit and fun of our Interhouse Competition. I would like to thank our House Captains and Coordinators for all their hard work in preparing their houses and the teachers and staff involved in the coordination of the day. We look forward to the Interhouse Cross Country in early Term 2.

Our victorious house will be announced at an upcoming school assembly... stay tuned. 

Lloyd Knight

Like all milestones, 91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret’s wants to make its mark - by moving the overall fundraising needle to the million-dollar mark! It’s a bold target, so we are calling in the cavalry. We have raised more than $700,000, in nine years, so our goal is to raise close to $300,000 this year to reach our target.

To achieve this, we are calling for the involvement not only of students to cut their hair and donate, but also any other family members and alumni who’d like to #rockthechop – whether they live locally or outside of Brisbane.

If you are an Old Girl or past or current parent and would like to help us reach our target, we are asking you to register your interest so we can keep you up to date with the 2024 event. And some of you might need to start growing your mane now!

Can’t get to Brisbane? You can still be involved wherever you are by joining the fundraising page and getting your local hairdresser or a trusted friend to lop off your ponytail or consider holding your own event in a regional area or international city!

We’d love to connect our boarding families keen to be involved from afar – perhaps to even host a morning tea on the day.  

If you are interested in becoming involved, we have set up an Expression of Interest form where you can indicate what type of involvement you are interested in, and if you are in another town, we could connect you with other’s keen to be involved.

Note, the actual donation page will be open soon. The EOI form will help us keep you in touch with all things Ponytail Project, including letting you know when you can jump on and sign up to either cut your hair or donate.

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.

It is a fantastic opportunity to promote your business to the entire school community which includes current parents, students, staff, prospective parents and students as well as Old Girls through communication channels including eNews and 91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret's social media channels and/or through signage and activations at the event.

If you would like to discuss ways in which you can partner with the MAYO Arts Festival, please contact Pru Reed on 07 3862 0828 or email preed@stmargarets.qld.edu.au. 

The P&F Executive and Committee will be elected at the Annual General Meeting. If you would like to formally join the P&F, or nominate someone for a position on the Executive and Committee, please complete a  and submit it to the P&F by Monday 11 March via P&F@stmargarets.qld.edu.au.

2024 P&F event calendar – including change of date for Mothers’ Lunch

The P&F Association is proud to host several events throughout the year to bring the community together while also helping to raise funds for the school. A calendar of events can be found on the P&F POD page:

The 91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret’s P&F Association will once again host the Mothers’ Lunch at Brisbane City Hall. Please note that the date for this event has changed to Thursday 15 August. The P&F will advertise tickets in Term 2 and invites anyone interested in supporting this event through sponsorship or prize donations to contact the P&F via P&F@stmargarets.qld.edu.au. 

91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret’s Past 91ÇÑ×Óudent Awards Dinner 2024

Just a reminder that it is not too late to purchase your ticket for the Past 91ÇÑ×Óudent Awards Dinner. 

This year’s event will celebrate the 2024 91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret's Past 91ÇÑ×Óudent Awards recipients: Dr Alex Markwell ('95), Michelle May AM KC ('72), Caitlin McConnel ('07) and Trudi Mitchell ('87).

Join us with your daughter to hear from these four inspirational 91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret's women who have made outstanding contributions to our society and achieved great success in their chosen field.  This event may be of particular interest to students considering careers in law, medicine, agriculture or agribusiness, philanthropy, or international aid.

Event Details

Date:        Thursday 21 March 2024
Time:        Pre-dinner drinks and canapes at 6.30pm
                  Dinner at 7.00pm (including Awards presentation)
Venue:      Arts Centre Foyer, 91ÇÑ×Ó Margaret's Anglican Girls School
Cost:         $95 Adults | $65 91ÇÑ×Óudents 
                  Adult ticket includes canapes, two course meal and drinks package
                  91ÇÑ×Óudent ticket includes canapes, two course meal and non-alcoholic drinks package
Tickets:   
RSVP:        Friday 8 March 2023
Enquiries: Development and Community Office, (07) 3862 0768 or           
                  oga&alumni@stmargarets.qld.edu.au

Georgia Mitchell