From the Senior School

HSC Continues

Year 12 Higher School Certificate examinations continue this week. I am very proud of the way the students are presenting and should be congratulated on their calm and steady approach in the first week of papers. It was pleasing to chat to the girls after their exams and hear their confidence with their performance. Please remember that the Director of Studies, Mrs Natasha Stanfield, Heads of Year 12, Mr Michael Stern and Mr Adam Moynihan (Acting) are here to assist with any issues if they arise.

I would also like to thank the Year 11 students (Year 12 2025) for their care, support and maturity in keeping the noise and disruption to a minimum around the Senior Centre while the HSC exams in are progress. It can be challenging, especially with some wet weather, but the girls have shown great respect to their peers with their support and kindness.

New Student Leader Induction Ceremony

We enjoyed a great Year 12 Student Leaders’ Induction last Friday. It was so lovely to welcome so many parents and carers to share in this special event. Recognising the key role of all Year 12 students as they step into their final year and leadership positions is an important rite of passage for both the students and their peers. Over the course of this year, it has been impressive to watch them meet their responsibilities and rise to the early challenges of Senior School, establishing solid routines around their study, school commitments and social life. I have every confidence that this group will foster a supportive and empowering environment, making this an outstanding year for our entire community.

The excitement among the new Year 12 students continued as they received their jerseys, marking another joyful moment in their journey. These serve as a powerful symbol of pride, community, and friendship, uniting them as they take on their leadership roles. The joy and enthusiasm reflected in their faces as they donned their jerseys underscored the strong bonds they are forming with one another.

Mentors

Our new Year 12 students have been reminded about the opportunity to work with a staff mentor. Many of the girls are already participating in this voluntary program and report high levels of engagement and satisfaction. Briefly, students can apply to work with a chosen senior member of staff as their mentor. The students themselves nominate areas that they would like to work on or would like to discuss and are responsible for making the meeting times. If they are interested, students have been asked to email me directly to organise a mentor.

Student Reflection: Sydney Adventist Hospital

During the September holidays, I had the privilege of shadowing Dr. Suelyn Lai-Smith, an Obstetrics and Gynaecology specialist at the Sydney Adventist Hospital. From touring the birth unit to observing consultations and ultrasound scans, every moment was eye-opening and inspiring. The highlight was stepping into an empty operating theatre in my first ever pair of scrubs!

This incredible opportunity was made possible by a San Foundation event I attended to empower young women in STEM earlier this year. Dr. Lai-Smith’s passion and care have fuelled my determination to pursue a career in this field and make a meaningful difference in the world.

Written by Jessica Worrell (Year 12)