Leadership Handover Assembly

The Leadership Handover Assembly, held on Monday of this week, is an important milestone for our Years 11 and 12 girls, as we thank and congratulate our Year 12 Leaders and celebrate the incoming 2024 Captains. 

Schools are remarkable places. As the weather warms with sunny spring days and the roses bloom around the Fountain, one cannot help but feel St Catherine’s preparing itself as for the next chapter. It is during this season that I am reminded of the rich tapestry of our School’s history and the girls celebrated as they pass through the Heyington Gates, each leaving behind their unique legacy. 

On behalf of our School community, I thank our School Co-Captains, Ava Colosimo and Flora Du for their leadership this year. This role is a significant undertaking in Year 12, with thought and care as the girls maintain a balance of study against the commitment of co-curricular activities and the leadership responsibilities that come with such a role. Ava and Flora’s friendly approach, demonstrated School pride, School spirit and an understanding of the essence of being a St Catherine’s girl was visible every day. 

The Handover Assembly is a time filled with laughter and joy, as Years 11 and 12 students cherish their participation in the age-old tradition of passing on symbolic items like the baton, wig, blazer, or other symbols representing various leadership roles. This moment also signifies the impending departure of the graduating Class of 2023. Whether they are aware of it or not, it is time for them to embark on new journeys and acquire new knowledge in different places. 

I have every confidence that they have thoroughly enjoyed their leadership roles this year and have gained invaluable life lessons in the process. They have learned how to prioritise effectively, recognised the significance of motivating and inspiring others, consistently set a positive example, and developed a deeper understanding of the responsibilities and accountability that accompany leadership positions. 

To our incoming Co-Captains, Alice Molnar, and Scarlett Shelton, together with the Year 11 Cohort, I welcome you to a year of challenge, choice, and responsibility. Your leadership will be defined by the confidence, internal strength, and resilience that you bring to your roles, and in doing so will bring forward new ideas, inspire and motivate girls, assist others, and acknowledge help whilst maintaining respect and a willingness to accept responsibility.  Congratulations to the following students: 

PFA Spring Ball

With only three weeks until the PFA Spring Ball I encourage our School community to secure their tickets to this spectacular event prior to the school holiday period. Tickets are available here for what will be a wonderful celebration of our St Catherine’s community and will also support our exceptional Parents’ and Friends’ Association. 

Staff News Term 4

At the close of Term 3, I take this opportunity to thank our staff who work with such purpose and care for the academic, wellbeing and co-curricular programs they develop and deliver to every St Catherine’s student. 

This week, we wish English teacher, Miss Rebecca Reggars the very best for her Long Service Leave in Term 4 and our School Psychologist, Ms Georgina Speak with the pending birth of her baby.  

We look forward to the welcome return from LSL our Head of Performing Arts, Mr James Brown, Head of English Faculty, Ms Mary-Anne Keratiotis and Biology teacher, Mrs Virginia Midgley; and in the ELC, Miss Kristina Schrader and Maintenance Staff, Mr Peter White.  

Thank you to Ms Gillian Hosking and Mrs Lisa Gionfriddo for their contributions leading the English Faculty across Terms 2 and 3. I also thank English teacher, Ms Merran O’Connor in her role as Acting Debating and Public Speaking Coordinator, and Drama Teacher, Ms Janine Meadley, and Biology teacher, Ms Sue Macgeorge ad ELC teacher, Ms Sloan Quilty for stepping into roles this term. We also say farewell to Mrs Inoka Ekanayake, our lunchtime assistant for 10 years in the ELC, and we share our appreciation for her warmth and care of the Campbell House children.  

During the holiday period, our VCE Units 3&4 students will be undertaking their trial exams. I strongly encourage them to maintain their diligence and stay productive in their studies. I extend my best wishes to all our families for a safe and rejuvenating holiday. I eagerly anticipate the return of our students in Term 4. 

Vale, Alexandra Thoms (‘18)

It is with a deep sadness that I share news of the passing of much-loved St Catherine’s graduate, Alexandra Thoms and send our condolences to her parents, Gordon and Bronwyn, and her brother Charlie. The strength of our community came to the fore at St John’s Anglican Church this week as her friends shared beautiful memories of their School days spent with Alexandra. Collectively, with many parents and teachers also in attendance, we provided Alexandra’s family with much-needed support through our unified presence.  

Alexandra is remembered for her radiant, genial presence, love of sport and contributing to the fun of House events as a member of Beaulieu Blair. As we grapple with the profound sadness of her untimely departure, Alexandra’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility. It underscores the importance of cherishing each moment, fostering bonds of friendship, and nurturing the sense of community that defines our School.  

Vale, Alexandra Thoms. You will forever remain an integral part of our St Catherine’s Family.