Things never seem to be dull in Year 10 in Semester 1. Our girls have been represented well in all our Co-curricular Programs, looking at future career pathways, preparing for their first Senior School exams, and enjoying active social lives. A real highlight was the Wellbeing Retreat we took in early Term 2. 

We were lucky enough to spend three days and two nights in the beautiful rural mountain town of Marysville. Early autumn proved to be the perfect time to take the windy road up into the hills as we were greeted with falling leaves, flowing rivers, and mild but sunny weather.  

The Wellbeing Retreat aimed to provide the girls with skills, strategies, and activities that supported their health and wellbeing. We were able to mix in a range of physical activities such as a hike to Steavenson Falls – where plenty of awesome selfies and group photos were taken, mountain biking through the Marysville Forest – which provided more smiles than scraped knees, and a yoga session that put many people into such a relaxed state they fell asleep on their mats.  

Back at the Lodge students took part in sessions such as art mindfulness, journaling, letter writing, and an inspiring session on mindset on the first evening with Ms Spanos. This was all taking place while going through a much-needed digital detox.  

One of the best parts of this Camp was the slow pace of the schedule, providing students and staff with a chance to unwind, relax, and form deeper connections with those around them. During our regular free time we would see staff and students joining in card games, writing letters of affirmation to peers, and listening to music together while having discussions about life.  

A highlight was our House dance contest on night two where after dinner students were told they had one hour to prepare a dance routine set to a song. It was so impressive to see everyone launch into this challenge with enthusiasm and showing their competitive spirit, before performing for everyone in an enjoyable showcase. Every student and staff member also had an envelope on Camp where people could write letters to one another with positivity and gratitude. Opening and reading these was a very emotional and heartwarming experience for many people.  

Overall, our Wellbeing Retreat was a fantastic time. Thank you so much to everyone involved for making it a positive and enjoyable experience that we will reflect on for years to come.  

Below are some reflections from our Year 10 students about their experiences so far this year: 

Marley Nathan – Transitioning into Year 10 

“Entering Year 10, I envisioned myself strapped to a relentless homework conveyor belt, perpetually grinding through assignments with no escape in sight. I imagined being buried under piles of textbooks, with my social life becoming a distant memory, especially with the added pressure of the VCE Subject Health and Human Development. I braced for an avalanche of stress. However, reality turned my expectations upside down. Year 10 has been an unexpected blend of freedom and responsibility. The flexibility of my studies, supported by the FlexiTute ILT sessions, has truly transformed my School experience. Instead of feeling like a homework robot, I’ve found a rhythm that balances study and life, making me more accountable and engaged. Health and Human Development, far from being a source of dread, has become a gateway to personal growth. It has provided excellent practice for the intensity of next year’s six VCE subjects, but in a surprisingly manageable way. I am mastering my time management and study techniques that will be invaluable in the future.  

As I navigate Year 10, it feels like I’m on the home stretch before the big game in Years 11 and 12. I now see this year as the final practice, for honing my skills and boosting my confidence for what’s to come. Year 10 has revealed more choice and freedom, comfort, responsibility, and a newfound assurance that I am capable of tackling the challenges ahead. This year, each assignment has become a step toward personal growth, and I’m genuinely enjoying the climb. The transition has been smoother than I anticipated, transforming my initial fears into a journey of development and readiness for the years to come.”   

Angela Feng – Experiences being a chess superstar 

Angela Feng

“From casual curiosity to international competition, Chess has become a transformative journey for me. What began as a fascination with the thrill of victory has evolved into active participation in local, state, national and international tournaments, representing Australia on the world stage. 

Most recently, I achieved the title of Champion of the 2024 Australian Juniors Chess Championship (G16 Division). I also had the honour of representing Australia at the Asian Youth Chess Championship held in UAE, facing a global pool of experienced players. Moreover, I competed alongside the St Catherine’s Chess Team, contributing to the numerous victories in interschool tournaments. This experience solidified my belief that Chess, while requiring individual skill, can also be a collaborative endeavour. 

Through these experiences, I’ve developed critical thinking and strategic planning skills. Each game is a lesson in patience, perseverance, and adaptability, teaching me to stay calm under pressure and to learn from both victories and defeats. Chess has not only honed my analytical abilities but also fostered a strong sense of community and a relentless drive for self-improvement. Looking ahead, I hope to share my love for Chess with others and perhaps even mentor new players, passing on the lessons I’ve learned.”