A Cocktail Party to Farewell Jenny Allum: Friday 24th October

A date for your diary in Term 4 – tickets on sale soon!

Review of the Anti-Bullying Policy & Peer Relations Survey 2025

At SCEGGS we are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and respectful learning environment for all students. As part of this commitment, during Semester 1 this year we have been reviewing our Anti-Bullying Policy to ensure it reflects best practice, meets current legislation, and continues to address the needs of our school community. This review has provided an opportunity to strengthen our approaches to prevention, intervention, and support, so that every student feels valued and protected. Over the coming month the Senior Wellbeing staff will be speaking with students across K – 12 so that they can become familiar with the key features of the SCEGGS approach to preventing bullying and how everyone is supported in our community. This process, which will be included in form time, peer mentoring and Chapel, allows us to listen to feedback, update strategies, and reaffirm our commitment to creating a safe and inclusive school culture. We know that preventing bullying is a responsibility shared by students, staff, parents, and the wider community so please do take the time to access this policy by clicking here where it is now publicly available on the school website along with other relevant policies.

You may also be aware that we have conducted a Peer Relations Survey of our students from Year 4 to Year 12 about every second year for more than 25 years. This questionnaire is intended to obtain the views on each student’s wellbeing and their happiness in their personal life and at school. We have been asking questions about mental health, bullying, school life and whether students enjoy being here and what concerns them about being a member of our school community. This year we are also wanting to ask questions around discrimination and harassment due to race, religion, sexuality, etc. We will look to administer this survey in the coming weeks, and we will be reporting the findings of this survey in due course. These results have in the past, and we have no doubt in the future, helped us implement changes to our policies and procedures to try to ensure that our students are safe and happy at school, that bullying in the school is kept to a minimum, and where it occurs, is dealt with appropriately.

Laura Connolly
Director of Student Wellbeing

From the Chaplain

The SCEGGS Podcast “Walk The Mile” Episode 68: Women in History Part 1 with Amy Satchell and Marie Salakas

“Study the past if you would define the future.” — Confucius. The study of history is not only an important part of civilization’s progress but a necessary discipline for our students to understand who they are and where they have come from. We can receive it in all sorts of ways but it is what we do with it that is crucial. Two of our History staff members, Amy Satchell and Marie Salakas, both with a long history attached to SCEGGS (both Old Girls) speak about their love of history, its significance in culture and the impact of women in history. This is part 1 of a two part conversation. In part two, they share some of their own history. I hope you enjoy our chat.

And a reminder that we are published on Spotify, Apple, Google Podcast and Deezer, so you can access it easier from your preferred device. I always welcome your feedback or any ideas you may have for further episodes. You will find each podcast as they are produced in this newsletter and on the other platforms as well as our website.

Monday Food Delivery

Thanks to all of those people within our community who continue to provide meals for the disadvantaged and marginalised each week. I can testify that your generosity is greatly appreciated and gives a measure of relief to those who are struggling. There are still a few spots left over for our September dates so if you could help out at all it would be greatly appreciated. There is no limit as to how many times you wish to volunteer, even if you want to do it as a one off. If you are new to this program you can find all the information and the sign up page here.

Recycled Clothing Drive to Help Battle Cancer

We have had a few clothing drives this year to help those who struggle to keep warm. Here is another initiative from one of our former parents, Robyn Carrier, that you may be interested in and help you to clean out the cupboard and live sustainably.

The “Bargains for Brains, Fashion for Good” charity fundraiser is a local Northbridge initiative, sparked by wanting to support Cure Cancer Australia’s current leading and life-changing Brain Cancer Research. It’s an under-funded area. Your support can and will make a difference.

How you can help: it’s easy, and good for the planet as well!

If you’re doing an early spring clean of your wardrobe, we’re NOW COLLECTING clean, pre-loved stylish clothing for our charity fundraiser fashion sale. We’d love the clothes, handbags, shoes and accessories you’re no longer wearing…think fabulous pieces ready for a new life.

To donate clothing contact:

…for drop off locations in Northbridge, Middle Cove or Freshwater – or to arrange pick up by us.

 You’ll soon start to notice our eye-catching QR coded posters popping up.

Scan the code for more information. Or go to our website here. 

The “Bargains for Brains, Fashion for Good” sale day kicks off at Northbridge Junction, next to Manhattan Nails, 10am-5pm on Saturday 13th September.

ALL money raised will go directly to Cure Cancer’s Glioblastoma (GBM) research to improve outcomes for the cohort of future and existing sufferers of this currently deadly and incurable disease. 

Rev. Garry Lee-Lindsay
School Chaplain

Book Week in the Primary School

In the weeks leading up to Book Week, Primary students delved into the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s (CBCA) shortlisted titles during their weekly library lessons. Some classes voted for their favourites, while others explored how language and form are shaped by a book’s purpose and intended audience.

The CBCA’s Book of the Year Awards Ceremony was held on Friday 15 August, at the National Library of Australia in Canberra. One standout title, Laughter is the Best Ending by Maryam Master, was already a library favourite, particularly among the upper primary students—before it was officially named the Younger Readers category winner. Other notable award winners include The Wobbly Bike by Darren McCallum in the Early Childhood category, The Truck Cat by Deborah Frenkel in the Picture Book category, and Always Was, Always Will Be by Aunty Fay Muir and Sue Lawson in the Eve Pownall Non-Fiction category.

Our Book Week celebrations culminated in the much-loved Book Character Parade. Despite the rain, hundreds of parents gathered in the Great Hall to see students from Kindergarten to Year 6 dressed as their favourite book characters. With the 2025 theme “Book an Adventure!” we saw a creative array of costumes, including characters from Where is the Green Sheep?, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, The Cat in the Hat, and many more.

Year 6 students Emilia Laban and Harriet Hilton did a fantastic job as MCs, while Olivia Hung delivered a heartfelt Welcome to Country. Throughout the event, many students were interviewed about their favourite books and what they love about reading. A highlight was a surprise visit from Ms Allum, who appeared dressed as a dinosaur from Edward Monkton’s A Lovely Love Story.

The parade concluded with the exciting announcement of the class with the highest participation in the 2025 Premier’s Reading Challenge (PRC), now in its 24th year. Designed to promote reading for pleasure and leisure, the PRC saw remarkable engagement this year. Out of 282 primary students, 268 completed the challenge, reading a combined total of more than 5,500 books since February. Special congratulations to 6S and 5R, who both achieved an impressive 100 percent completion rate. A big thank you to all students and teachers who made this achievement possible through their dedication and encouragement.

Here are some of the images

Helen Dempsey
Head of Primary 

From the Languages Department

French Exchange

In the final week of Term 2, we had the pleasure of welcoming six exchange students from France into our school community. These students embarked on a six-week stay as part of our reciprocal French exchange program.

During their time here, they were hosted by six of our own students who study French in Year 10, and their families. They immersed themselves in school life, discovered the vibrant city of Sydney and explored various corners of Australia. Throughout their stay, the students were eager to practise their English, expanding their vocabulary and fluency, though at times, they found themselves bemused by some of the uniquely Australian expressions.

The exchange students were deeply moved by the “mesmerising beauty” of Australia and the warmth and generosity of the people they encountered. They spoke with awe of their experience, describing it as nothing short of “transformative.”

While the SCEGGS host sisters already feel the absence of their new friends, the bonds formed during this exchange will be rekindled in early December. Our students will travel to Lyon for the next leg of the exchange, where they will live the French lifestyle for six weeks, continuing this enriching linguistic and cultural journey.

Angélique Deleeuw
Head of Languages

SchoolTV – Cyberbullying

With the advent of the internet, smart phones and tablets, there is now a whole new digital dimension added to traditional schoolyard bullying. There was once a time when bullying victims were given some respite outside of school hours, but sadly these days, online bullying can occur 24/7. In today’s world, teaching your child about online and cyber safety, is a critically important skill!

Cyberbullying can be identified as being the repeated behaviour by an aggressor with the intent to harm or embarrass. Technology enables these aggressors to share information widely and quickly, making this form of bullying extremely dangerous and harmful. However, the answer is not to shun the internet or social media completely. Instead, parents are encouraged to be realistic and instil a family internet policy to protect their children whilst providing, in an age-appropriate way, opportunities to learn, explore and communicate online.

In this edition of SchoolTV, parents are provided with useful guidelines and advice on how to minimise the risks. Children have the right to feel safe, regardless of whether it is in the schoolyard or online.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to the Cyberbullying edition of SchoolTV, where you can hear from experts such as Dr Michael Carr-Gregg, who sits on the Board of the National Centre Against Bullying; Susan McLean from Cyber Safety Solutions; and Lesley Podesta from the Alannah and Madeline Foundation.

For further information and resources on on how to support your child if you think they are being cyberbullied, please see the e-safety website: Cyberbullying | Guide for Parents and Carers eSafety Commissioner

Finding out your child is engaging in bullying can also be a distressing time for families. If you have found out your child has been engaging in bullying, please consider reading this guide for parents from the Emerging Minds website: Finding out your child is experiencing or engaging in bullying – Emerging Minds

Philippa Gibson
SCEGGS School Counsellor

Secondary Sport News

Snowsports

Well done to Alyssa Rayment (Year 8) who won the U14 & U16 age groups at the TSRC Cup that was recently held in Thredbo. This event featured some of the very best skiers in NSW and was a terrific result.

Congratulations to the 22 students who represented SCEGGS at the NSW Interschools Snowsports Competition that was held at Perisher last week. The team was blessed with lovely weather and lots of snow which was in stark contrast to soggy Sydney.

Highlights from the Secondary School were as follows:

Highlights from the Primary School

10 students have now qualified to compete at the Australian Interschools Championships to be held at Mt Buller next week:

We wish them all well as they prepare for the final event of the season.

Cross Country

Well done to Lily Cooney (Year 11) and Annabelle Jessup (Year 9) who competed at the Australian Cross Country Championships that were held on the weekend in Ballarat.

IGSA Athletics Championship Results

On Thursday and Friday in Week 5, 34 athletes from Years 7-12 competed at the IGSA Athletics Carnival.

After winning the Division 3 competition in 2024, the SCEGGS team was promoted to Division 2 this year. We achieved some great results and placed 14^th overall, out of 27 schools!

All athletes should be extremely proud of their efforts and results at the carnival, where many achieved some new Personal Best results too. The SCEGGS spirit was on show all day with positive vibes, support and encouragement for everyone in the team.

An extra thank you goes to the students who competed up an age group (or two!).

Full results below…

Hurdles 

100m

200m

400m

1500m

Relays

Long Jump

High Jump

Shot Put

Discus

Javelin

SCEGGS at Play

Do you have any sporting news or photos to share in the Green Gate?

We love seeing our students being active and want to celebrate their passion and enjoyment amongst the SCEGGS community. Please send in any action shots from the weekend and any other interesting sporting highlights to Alison Gowan.

SCEGGS Training sessions before and after school plus Saturday Sport

Any cancellations or adjustments will be made in Clipboard and families will receive a notification or email when changes are made. Please ensure you have notifications enabled.

All Clipboard notifications will now come through the SCEGGS Mobile App too, so if you have been receiving notifications from Clipboard (eg when sport is cancelled due to wet weather), you will need to download the SCEGGS Mobile App to ensure that you continue to receive these push notifications.

IGSA Fixtures, Results and Wet Weather

The IGSA website and platform for accessing wet weather, fixtures and team results can be found here.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact myself on 9052 2721 or 0418 491 521.

Alison Gowan
Director of Sport

Primary Sport News

Saturday Sport

Last Saturday, all IPSHA AFL and Touch Football games were once again washed out due to field closures. In Year 3 Netball, Ms Moar was impressed with the passing and movement on the court by the girls despite both teams going down. SCEGGS Navy lost 1-0 although had plenty of chances to score. The Year 3 Minkey team had two close games at Ascham with strong performances by Alicia Hyland and Pearl Bongardt, who both made some strong tackles.

Students Achievements

Marlowe Rodgers (Year 3), Charlotte Baker (Year 4) and Estelle Sicari (Year 4) placed first place at the Platinum Dance Competition as part of a Brent Street dance troupe. Sienna Fleming also competed for Brent Street in another troupe, performing jazz, tap, hip hop and lyrical routines in the under 9s competition. Sienna’s group were outstanding in jazz and moved through to the Platinum Championships later this year where they will compete against teams from across NSW. They also won best costume for their jazz routine. Congratulations girls!

NSWPSSA Netball Championships

Eve Tawfik (Year 6) recently competed at the NSWPSSA Netball Championships for the NSWCIS team and placed 7th overall out of 14 teams. The team won 7 games out of 13 with some incredibly narrow games. Eve was fortunate to be in the starting line-up for each game, playing predominantly GS as well as some GA. She displayed incredible resilience on day two – copping an accidental elbow from an opposing player in the first five minutes but managed to compose herself and continue the game. Well done, Eve. You should be extremely proud of your efforts!

Important Sports Dates:

Primary Sport Achievements

Does your daughter compete in any sport outside of school (for example, at a representative level or a sport we do not currently offer)? If so, I would love to celebrate their achievements by recognising them in this newsletter!

Please email any information (and photos, if possible) to Adrian Hammond. These will be included in newsletters throughout the year.

For any questions or issues, please email Adrian Hammond  and the SCEGGS Sport Department.

Have a wonderful mid-term break!

Mr Adrian Hammond
Primary Sports Coordinator

Cape York Immersion 2026

We are excited to share that planning is now underway for the 2026 Cape York Immersion, and all students who will be in Year 9 and Year 10 in 2026 are eligible to participate.

We warmly invite parents and carers of students currently in Year 8 and Year 9 to attend an information session with Red Earth on Wednesday 10 September.

The information evening will take you on a journey around the Red Earth immersion offered to Cape York in September 2026. The sample itinerary will be discussed, maps of where students will get to go will be shared, logistics and safety protocols addressed, and the next steps required to enrol your daughter in the program will be provided.

In the week prior, all Year 8 and Year 9 students will attend a student information session in a Year Meeting. They may come home with news and questions about the Cape York trip —so we encourage you to join us to learn more!

The session will be held in the SCEGGS Lecture Theatre, starting at 6pm and concluding by 7pm.

To indicate you would like to attend, please register via the 2026 Cape York Parent Information Evening Registration Form.

Carol Bloomfield
Head of Student Wellbeing Programs

Primary & Secondary Music

Musicale 3

Musicale 3 will be held at 6pm on Wednesday 3 September in the SCEGGS Great Hall. This concert will feature performances from ensembles in the secondary school as primary ensembles are busy preparing for ASBOF and assembly performances this term.

Ensembles Performing

Emma Pask Jazz Band, Basie Jazz Band, Woodwind Ensemble, Broken Records Rock Band, Bad Average Rock Band, Holst Wind Ensemble, Choir, Contemporary Vocal Ensemble, Madrigal Ensemble, Touring Choir, Edwardes Percussion Ensemble, Van Reyk Percussion Ensemble, Cremona Strings, Amati Strings.

Rehearsals

All rehearsal information can be viewed on Clipboard. Please check rehearsal venues in the lead-up to the concert as we try to schedule at least one Great Hall rehearsal for each group.

Competition Results

Congratulations to Cheryl Zhang (Year 7) who recently participated in the Sydney Eisteddfod. In the Open Piano Award, Cheryl was awarded 2^nd place.

At the Aegio International Piano Competition Cheryl was awarded 3^rd place.

Congratulations, Cheryl!

SongLab Songwriting Course

The Sydney Conservatorium of Music Open Academy is running a self-paced virtual course for songwriters of any level delivered by one of Australia’s most experienced songwriting instructors Keppie Coutts, who held the position of Assistant Professor of Songwriting at the Berklee College of Music in Boston before moving to Australia.

Click here for more information.

Primary & Secondary Piano Concerts

Primary School students are invited to perform a well-prepared piano piece at a concert in the Great Hall on Thursday 11 September from 3.20pm-4.20pm. The link is available in the table below and on Seesaw and will close one week prior to the concert.

Secondary School piano students are also invited to perform in the concert following the Primary concert on Thursday 11 September from 4.30pm-5.30pm in the Great Hall. The link is available in the table below and will close on 4 September.

Free Youth Sensory Concert

A carefully curated musical program for audiences aged 16+, specifically designed to be accessible and comfortable for people with sensory sensitivities such as those with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD, this concert features violinist Matthieu Arama (Concertmaster, Opera Australia Orchestra), Teije Hylkema (Principal Cellist, Opera Australia Orchestra) and pianist Grace Kim. From Mozart to Minecraft, there’s something for everyone! A new work written especially for this concert by Australian composer Cyrus Meurant will be premiered.

Click here for more information.

Sydney Youth Orchestra Summer School

Early bird registration, with only 125 spots available, is now open for Sydney Youth Orchestra Summer School to be held from 12-17 January 2026. Students who play orchestral instruments from their first year of playing through to AMEB Grade 7 or equivalent are invited to join SYO for five fun and intensive days of rehearsals and tutorials in the summer holidays with Sydney’s best educators, culminating in a concert at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Musicians will receive expert guidance, challenge and develop their orchestral skills and build confidence whilst learning alongside their peers. Click here for more information.

Beyond the Green Gate

We love hearing about ways our musicians are involved in music-making outside of school. Please send details to Heidi Jones.

Clipboard

All co-curricular music ensemble schedules are now available on Clipboard. If you haven’t set this up yet, please follow the provided instructions. For any issues with Clipboard set-up, contact our Music Administration Assistant, Miss Alice Kotowicz.

Term 3 Event Overview

Please refer to Clipboard for information regarding rehearsals and performances.

Heidi Jones
Head of Music (Co-curricular)

Wear it Forward

The Senior School Environment Club, Maailma, are excited to announce an upcoming clothes drive at school, aiming to promote sustainable consumer behaviour while also raising funds for WWF, The World Wildlife Foundation.

We invite all parents and the wider community to participate by donating good quality, gently used clothing that is no longer loved and give these items a new life. By doing so Maailma hopes to encourage responsible consumption in our community while educating our students about over production and consumption of textiles and the environmental issues of textile waste. All proceeds from the sale of donated clothes will go to WWF. Leftover items will be donated to The Wayside Chapel.

Please send Donations to school with your daughter or drop off at the front office.

The Clothes Drive will take place on Wednesday 3 September.

Your generosity will not only make a positive environmental impact but will also benefit others—thank you for being part of this meaningful initiative!

Community Support

Current parent John Venetoulis (father of Jessica Venetoulis in Year 10) is entering the Race the Planet Greece 2025 Ultra-Marathon to raise funds for the Sydney Children’s Foundation. This 250km six day run through the Peloponnese begins on September 28. More details, including how to support John, are available here.

Careers Corner

Careers Corner Newsletter

Please click here to view the latest issue of the Careers Corner Newsletter.

Andrea Pinnock
Careers Advisor

Parents’ and Friends’ Association