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LEARNING SCG MAGAZINE: 5•1 Issue 5, AprilISSUE 2022

CONTENTS

20 | PROPAGATING POSITIVE FUTURES

FEATURES

24 | SPACE FOR CONNECTION

04 | YEAR 7 CAMP

32 | A QUANTUM STEP FORWARD

Our Year 7s have made their first weeks at Southern Cross Grammar one to remember, immersing themselves in their three-day Year 7 Camp at Point Leo.

The opening of the Centauri Centre and the opportunities that it provides for students, staff, families, and the wider community represents a quantum step forward for the Southern Cross Grammar Community.

14 | PRECINCT ELEVATES STEM AMBITION

With state-of-the-art spaces and 52 | YEAR 8 CRICKET SUCCESS equipment for students and staff 58 | SETTING THE STAGE FOR MATILDA to work and learn, Southern Cross Grammar's STEM Precinct elevates 60 | HITTING THE TRACK RUNNING the school's commitment to fostering students' ambition for high performance in STEM.

58 | SETTING THE STAGE FOR MATILDA Students and staff are preparing to transport audiences into new worlds with Matilda the Musical set to hit the Southern Cross Grammar stage later this year.

ADDENDUM: Anish Davuluri (Class of 2021) scored an ATAR of 95.6. In the spirit of reconciliation, Southern Cross Grammar acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present.

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

The Southern Cross Grammar community have once again shown great spirit in supporting the children in our community and indeed, one another through complex times!

The summer holidays saw the completion of our ambitious upgrade to the Middle School building. Having seen the energy this has generated for staff and students, we can’t wait to welcome families to experience these spaces and, of course, The first Term of 2022 has been full of opportunities for students with excursions the highly anticipated Centuari Centre! and camps back with much joy and The first Term of 2022 has celebration across the school. I have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with been full of opportunities for students on camps, cultural celebrations, students with excursions and and excursions. Seeing the Class of 2022 camps back with much joy and lead the way with the first major events celebration across the school. for the year, their Year 12 Leadership Retreat, was a wonderful way to launch the new school year. Diving with the Year Students are eagerly awaiting their first 7 students under Flinders Pier with the classes in Centuari for day one of Term underwater drone filming below while 2 with the new opportunities available students mastered piloting the aerial through the incredible specialty rooms, drone above was also a peak moment for Year 12 café and common room, and of all involved. course our beautiful whole school library! I thank everyone in our community for Our staff, as always, have been resolute your understanding and support while in their commitment to providing rich we managed shortages in supplies and experiences for students. With staff labour. Your encouragement has been a shortages predicted for the Term across tonic while the team worked so hard in the state, a new variant to contend the background to complete this massive with, and great planning (and often retask. planning) for even the simplest activity, it would have been easy—and even reasonable—for staff to cut back our offerings in response to these challenges. Instead, as they have always done, our staff, both teaching and support, stepped up to maximise learning, joy and a return to the things we all remember most about our time at school: time together!

With enviable spaces to learn and incredible expansions of our resources in STEM, The Arts and in spaces to gather as a community, we are also in a position to show gratitude for all that the builders, SCG staff, and community have done to deliver us this wonderful opportunity.

For everyone past and present who have sat in late night planning meetings, had the foresight and trust to enrol your children in a young school, demonstrated patience while we navigated these trying last few years of the pandemic together, staff who continue to provide personal and engaging lessons, families who have spoken highly of our school to others or sold a sausage at a fundraiser, I hope you share in the joy of having contributed to something so meaningful. I hope you feel our gratitude for everything you’ve done and feel a collective sense of achievement for the opportunities you’ve helped provide for generations of students to come.

YEAR 7 CAMP

The Class of 2027 have eagerly grasped opportunities to make their first weeks as the newest secondary students at Southern Cross Grammar one to remember, immersing themselves in the many adventures their three-day Year 7 Camp had to offer at Point Leo.

WATCH HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE YEAR 7 CAMP SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 4

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Students prepare to surf for the first time having finished their surfing information and practice session. Guided by the Year 7 themes of Joy, Routine, and Challenge, the Class of 2027 immersed themselves in the joys, camping routines and the challenges of their Year 7 camp, as they snorkelled, surfed, bush-walked and participated in camping rituals including setting up camp, and sleeping in tents. “A common motto mentioned to students prior to and throughout camp was ‘Challenge by Choice’," Jade Panozzo, Head of Year 7, said. "Everybody has different boundaries so for some, standing on a surfboard was a challenge whilst for others it was be sleeping in a tent." Talia Crngarov challenged herself by surfing and snorkelling for the first time, and having experienced it, is excited to use her new-found skills on her next trip to the beach. “As I have never been snorkelling or surfing before I was a little nervous to jump in under the water for a longer period to snorkel,” she said, “but seeing the sea life was incredible and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity. Surfing was incredible and definitely my highlight from the school camp. “I can’t wait to go out to the beach again and show off my new skills.” Year 7 student, Alessandra Leong, high off her camp experience spoke about her excitement to surf for the first time and her experience in the water. “[Before camp] I told many people how excited I was for surfing and how I wished that it would live up to my high expectations.

Turns out, it did! It was just how I had expected; super fun. I loved surfing and was able to stand up on my board multiple times. Although, I did fall quite a bit at the start but all it is, is just a bit of trial and error.”

7 camp,” Maisur said. “Flying the aerial drone was an experience because it flew so smoothly while being capable of so

As well as taking to the surf or exploring what lies beneath the sea for the first time, a highlight for Maisur Khan was setting up a tent for the first time. “Setting up a tent for me was very interesting as I've never done it before. It was a good learning experience, and I can now set up my own tent.” When speaking about how the Year 7s took to challenging themselves on the camp, Jade said, “Seeing students push through boundaries and give activities a go was a highlight from the camp. There were some students who prior to the camp spoke to me about some concerns they had regarding surfing and sleeping in tents but they pushed through and did themselves proud. I was also extremely proud of how respectful all students were when interacting with each other, staff and camp staff, and how they really supported each other.” During the camp students also had the opportunity to work with staff and senior students to pilot our new underwater drone and aerial drone. The footage they captured during camp was shared with our community in a series of Year 7 Camp videos. “Piloting an underwater and aerial drone were some of my highlights from the Year

As well as surfing, students also snorkelled and encountered diverse wildlife in the Bay, and piloted our aerial drone. SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 7

(Left) An aerial photograph of students preparing to snorkel in Point Leo Bay (Right) Surfing for the first time with success many things. It was easy to handle but at the same time nerve-racking since it was my first time.” The Year 7 themes of Joy, Routine, and Challenge transcends context and time, in their application to our academic program, camps program, and in the Year 7 experience, more broadly. “There are so many joyful activities we look forward to in Year 7. Routine is extremely important as we move to Secondary School. Forming good routines often allows us to achieve a high level of personal success whether this be academically, socially or pastorally. Challenging yourself too is an important aspect not just at school but in life,” Jade said. Students have enjoyed their transition into secondary schooling and have taken to the all aspects of the transition including their approach to the curriculum, secondary environment, and new teachers with maturity and calm.

Water-based activities were a highlight during camp and students encountered diverse marine life including sea dragons, which were captured on our underwater drone (pictured on page 7). SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 8

For Alessandra Leong, who joined the school in 2017, the first weeks of term have seen her adapt to the changes from our Primary Years to Secondary Years. “My first few weeks of high school has been amazing. I have already learnt so many new things whether it is Creative Industries or Maths, or even Languages. I can't wait for the lower year levels to

experience this in the future.” Having joined the Year 7 cohort as a new student, Talia Crngarov has enjoyed developing new friendships in our welcoming community. “I am really enjoying the school culture and environment at the school. Everyone has been so welcoming and inclusive,” she said. "I have made lots of new friendships that I hope to last a lifetime. My teachers are very encouraging and supportive of not only our academic learning but also our passions outside the classroom. I feel extremely lucky to have the support I need to allow me to succeed in both.” With much planned for the Year 7 program, including Personal Projects, showcases, sports carnivals and the opening of the Centauri Centre, 2022 has begun as a memorable year to remember for the Class of 2027.

HEAR THE CLASS OF 2027 TALK ABOUT THEIR CAMP EXPERIENCE SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 9

Students relax in the water after their surfing activity at Flinders Pier in Point Leo SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 10

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Water-based activities, including surfing, were a highlight for students with many riding the waves for the first time. Our new underwater drone made its debut during the Year 7 camp with students capturing underwater footage and marine life at Flinders Pier. In the true camps experience, students slept in tents, cooked their meals and enjoyed the great outdoors during their three days together. SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 13

VIEW OUR NEW TECH FOR LEARNING AND INNOVATION IN ACTION SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 14

PRECINCT ELEVATES STEM AMBITION With state-of-the-art spaces and equipment for students and staff to work and learn, Southern Cross Grammar's STEM Precinct elevates the school's commitment to fostering students' ambition for high performance in STEM. Our Year 6 students have been delighted with our new laser cutter and have wasted no time using it to bring their digital planning to life in building their fair ground models as part of their Physics studies.

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In the STEM Makers Lab, students have been completing a number of projects including coding with Scratch. Behind them, you can see the pink glow of our new plant tissue culture laboratory. For Head of Science, Angie Atal Carreon, the modern and dynamic nature of the STEM Precinct, along with its emphasis on modern technology and tertiary style setting is a reflection of the school’s commitment to continue fostering students’ high performance in STEM. She said, “Witnessing the learning, innovation, and collaboration when walking through the STEM Precinct is a positive and uplifting experience as a science educator. The environment that surrounds our students is truly an integral part of their learning, and the spaces we have created in the STEM Precinct are modern, dynamic, and are spaces similar to those used in the tertiary setting. As such, students have embraced the new spaces with curiosity and enthusiasm. “The new STEM and Engineering Laboratories especially, with their new equipment and state-of-theart technologies allow students the option and flexibility to select their own equipment when investigating concepts in STEM, think outside the box, and be creative when problem solving.” Working and learning in the STEM Precinct has re-ignited Ved Padmawar’s (Class of 2022) ambition in his Chemistry studies. “The STEM Precinct has been amazing to learn and has reinvigorated our passions for STEM as senior SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 16

(Left) A student holds his freshly laser-cut ferris wheel. (Right) In our Senior Biology Laboratory, students complete their investigations. students,” he said “Personally, I have experienced that feeling of reinvigoration when completing a practical activity in one of the newly renovated laboratories for Chemistry. I was able to use a digital voltage meter to measure the voltage being generated by my galvanic cell. Now, that might not seem like a big thing, but really helps in accuracy, precision, and readability of

results which are crucial for Chemistry and other sciences offered at our school. “The new equipment and facilities have the potential to really inspire younger students’ science aspirations.” Encouraging the next generation of scientists begins early and at Southern Cross Grammar we are passionate about building students’ capacity and curiosity in STEM from a young age by offering

The Engineering Laboratory has been buzzing with activity as students use state-of-the-art resources including the soldering stations with personal fume hoods and data logging suites of PASCO equipment for their studies and projects. science as one of our core subjects from the early primary years. As such, the STEM Precinct is much more than a space for secondary students; it is also open to our primary students. Early in Term 1, Principal, Matt Dodd, hosted our Year 6 students on a tour of the STEM Precinct where he introduced them the new rooms and equipment for learning, and how they too could use the facility for their science studies, projects, and further learning. When speaking about the impact of the Precinct's resources on innovation at Southern Cross Grammar and student learning, he said, "The right equipment in the hands of students and staff is a powerful equation. Having access to quality equipment in a timely fashion and in an environment where students and staff are genuinely trusted to use it unleashes creativity and creates high quality outcomes. "A good example of this has been in our laboratories. From spectrometers through to data loggers, and our ceramic printer which is even rare amongst teritary organisations, the equipment in our STEM Precinct places us in a space of innovation in secondary and teritary levels." In Week 5 students visited the engineering laboratory to experience

electrical energy first-hand. Learning in the laboratory for the first time and using the equipment has inspired the Year 6s to make further links between STEM and their daily lives.

delighted with the laser cutter’s ability to bring their digital planning to life for their fair ground models."

this technology at a young age we are preparing them for a strong future in STEM.

“Witnessing the upgrades and growth of our STEM offerings as an educator and member of the SCG community has been, and is, a source of pride. We look forward to continuing to develop these spaces into highly functional and inspiring places to learn.”

At Southern Cross Grammar we are fortunate to have highly qualified For Sienna Martins, working in the educators, leaders and scientists. As laboratory and using the new equipment well as distinguished teaching careers, was a highlight. “I liked how we got to many of our staff hold doctorates having use things that most people haven’t used, completed their own research in their and using them to create things that field. Others enjoy decades of industry happen in everyday life,” she said. experience in areas such as electrical engineering and are actively involved in Shaunak Talwar enjoyed making working with universities to prepare the links between his investigations into next generation of teachers. electrical energy and the structure of the laboratory, saying, "Experiencing The impact of the STEM Precinct is also the engineering laboratory was a great tangible in how our staff interact with, and experience as we got to test our circuits work in the space. “As science educators, and use the equipment. The electronics we understand the importance of making in the roof were visible which also gave learning STEM current, investigative, us an idea of the hidden world above us.” rigorous and practical," Angie said. Year 6 STEM teacher, Chris Gauci, spoke "Working in the new STEM Precinct and seeing the impact it has had on how of the importance of students working our students approach their studies has in such sophisticated and advanced spaces during their primary years, saying, further lifted our ambition to take our pedagogy further. “By allowing our students to experience

"Wasting no time to make the most of these opportunities, the Year 6s have been busy using Adobe Illustrator to design key elements of their fairground physics project. Students have been

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For their STEM project, Year 6 students have been using our new tech tools for learning such as the laser cutter and 3D printer. Year 6 students visited the Engineering Laboratory in Term 1 to experience electrical energy first-hand. During their visit, students made links between their practical class and the visible electronics in the laboratory’s exposed ceiling. Eager to make use of our new Laser Cutter, Year 6 students have been using the laser cutter to bring their digital design planning to life, building fair ground models. SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 19

PROPAGATING POSITIVE FUTURES Our plant tissue culture laboratory is a symbol to students to aim beyond their secondary level learning and is a call to our community of the powerful impact of building relationships and connections with others for positive impact. The pink glow of our new plant tissue culture laboratory, created in collaboration with Professor Neena Mitter and her innovative team of scientists at the University of Queensland, is a beacon on our campus. Whether leading students through our beautiful grounds and into the Middle School Building, through our hallways and inviting hubs, and into the STEM Precinct as the first step towards a career in STEM and beyond, it is also symbolic of our invitation to students to aim higher than their high school learning level. Year 11 Biology student, Aditi Shinde, who has her sights set on pursuing a biology research pathway into genetics was one of the first students to use the laboratory. “Being one of the first students to work in the new laboratory was really exciting, especially as a Year 11 Biology student, because we were using SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 20

high tech tools for our learning. I’m so happy the school has provided a space like the [plant tissue culture] lab as we get to gain experience in biotechnology in a specialised environment at school before entering university.” The design and construction of the plant tissue culture lab comes as part of our commitment to supporting students’ high performance in STEM and joins our suite of state-of-the-art resources and specialised environments for learning often unique to universities and institutions of higher learning and research. Over the past year our staff have worked closely with Professor Mitter and her team to source equipment for the lab, including a Laminar flow hood, build the lab, and prepare it for students. “The lab we have established is what

you would find at universities and at the tertiary or research level. We are not missing a single component,” Biology teacher, Dr Amer Ibrahim Basha, said. Dr Basha’s wealth of experience in research and university education, having completed two PhDs in genetics and horticulture, and working with international agricultural organisations, has been invaluable for students as they experience working and learning in the specialised biotech lab. “Preparing students to work in the lab for the first time involved conveying the importance of sanitisation and having a germ-free lab. As part of that process students sanitised the lab before using it for the first time. After sanitising the lab, we propagated seeds which will be used to study the effect of sanitised media on seed germination and seedling growth,” he said.

As they prepared to use the plant tissue culture laboratory for the first time, students sanitised the lab to avoid contamination. In their first session in the lab students propagated seeds to study the effect of the sanitised media on seed germination and seedling growth.

The launch of the lab is both timely and exciting with our students ambitious to make a difference in the world through STEM and the biotechnology fields, having seen the feats achieved during the pandemic with the development of vaccines, and the ground-breaking work of scientists like Professor Mitter and her team in significantly reducing commercial wait times for avocado trees. “Biotechnology and the advancement in research technology has never been more visible, given the pandemic. We usually need ten years to get a vaccine and we got the COVID-19 vaccine within 18 months. That’s huge. Mind blowing,” Dr Basha said. “Scientists around the world research issues that are important to them and Professor Mitter’s research into shortening the process of getting new avocado varieties to reach commercial orchards from 10 years to three years or less, and creating 500 new plants out of one single cutting within eight to ten months, is significant. “The lab is a massive step forward for Southern Cross Grammar in creating graduates already trained as biotech technicians before beginning further

studies, placing them ahead of their peers in terms of skills and employment. “I’m excited to apply the learning we do in our lab on a state and even national level to find solutions to issues that are important to us here in Victoria. In terms of plant propagation techniques, plant tissue culture is the most advanced type. It can be used to create new varieties of plants that do not exist right now. For example, we can increase the nutrition value and extend the shelf life of the crop itself. We can also shorten propagation process in our lab to produce hundreds of thousands of plants yearly." Sage Huseinovski is looking forward to finding answers to questions he has had for some time about plant-based stem cell research, including yeast propagation: “I have a curiosity about plants and have had questions about which sugars would make yeasts produce the most ethanol,” he said. “I feel really privileged to work and learn in the new laboratory and I look forward to finding answers there.”

professor, will undoubtably lead to many years of increased opportunities for students and staff, and is a powerful reminder that success is found through collaborations and genuine relationships—in this case with Professor Mitter, her team, and the University of Queensland. Principal, Matt Dodd, said: "Science is a much more social activity than most people realise. For millennia people have collaborated and imagined together to great effect. In this way, our relationship with Professor Mitter's team and the University of Queensland is the very best of science because it involves mentors, an exchange of knowledge and ideas, and in our case a ladder to a university experience for our students. "We couldn't be more appreciative of what Professor Mitter and her team have already generously provided us in sharing their knowledge. We look forward to deepening our relationship for many students to come."

The plant tissue culture lab, which began with a phone call to a renowned SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 21

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Sanitisation is vital when working in a laboratory. As part of the propagation process students sanitised their workspace and equipment in the plant tissue culture laboratory

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SPACE FOR CONNECTION

Located in the heart of our new Year 7 area, the Year 7 Hub is a dynamic space for learning and connection for the Class of 2027 and future cohorts to come.

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The Year 7 Hub is as vibrant as it is welcoming. With a design reminiscent of spaces of higher learning such as tertiary settings, the Hub is never still. It is an extension of the classroom, a place to study, a space to collaborate with peers, sit with friends during break times, and gather together as one cohort. The flexible nature of the Hub with its dynamic furniture for socialising, collaborating, and learning has been a highlight for Year 7 student, Alessandra Leong. “Our new Year 7 Hub is amazing,” she said. “There is a variety of furniture for everyone and many people enjoy

spending time with their friends in the Hub at recess and lunch. It’s a cool place to hang out or to study as well.” The Year 7 Hub is located in the heart of the Year 7 area, surrounded by our newly upgraded and refurbished classrooms with designer flexible furniture for learning, their own kitchenette and multimedia and audiovisual resources.

“The flexibility of the space has made a tangible difference in how students learn in class, especially when it comes to collaborative learning,” she said. “The Year 7 Hub also acts as an extension of the classroom as it’s a nice and quiet space for students to focus on their work and study, should they need to.”

Year 7 English teacher, Andrea Clarry, described teaching in the new space and its opportunities for collaborative learning as a one that has boosted students’ learning capacity and retention of their work.

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One of the new and refurbished Year 7 classrooms surrounding the Year 7 hub

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CELEBRATING WOMEN AND GIRLS IN SCIENCE SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 28

DECODING LIVING COMPUTERS Chloe Su (Class of 2020) is ambitious to discover new science behind the human brain as she studies a Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne, with a focus on entering the neuroscience pathway. as neuroscience advances our understanding between the relationship of the brain and body, and how they operate together.” Chloe’s curiosity about the wonders and complexity of the human body saw her join other bright and ambitious minds from Australia and internationally at the University of Melbourne for their acclaimed Bachelor of Science course, with plans to enter the neuroscience pathway in her third year. Having completed the first year of her degree in 2021 and now in her second year, Chloe’s studies have shifted from learning the fundamental knowledge about biology to studying specialised units. “My first-year studies were fundamental and introductory knowledge,” she said. “Now, entering my second year, I’ve begun studying more specialised subjects to my degree such as human physiology and biological psychology.” Chloe is one of the bright minds at the University of Melbourne studying a Bachelor of Science. The human brain, also known as a living computer, is both fascinating and baffling, and we only know a fraction about it. Chloe Su (Class of 2020) is ambitious to discover the science behind these living computers to improve our understanding of health issues such as brain tumours, Parkinson’s disease and other conditions. “I find the complexity of the brain, the development of the nervous system and its impact on human behaviour fascinating and thus became the focus of my tertiary studies,” Chloe said. “My decision to enter the neuroscience pathway is to further my understanding and curiosity of the human body,

titration experiment my class did in Year 11 and Year 12.” As Chloe immerses herself in her second year at university, she aspires to pursue a career in behavioural research or brain imaging, saying, “I believe the study of the functional, cellular and medical aspects of the brain and the nervous system holds great significance to our world, and neuroscience can be used to support medicinal developments to treat and prevent fatal health issues. “In completing my course, I aspire to pursue a career in behavioural research or brain imaging. There is a possibility that I might continue studying as a postgraduate in clinical neuropsychologyor cellular neuroscience.”

Chloe’s VCE subjects included Chemistry and Biology, and she has fond memories of her practicals in both classes and the mentorship she received from her Biology teacher, Dr Amer Ibrahim Basha, and Chemistry teacher, Ms Angie Atal Carreon. “I found studying science at Southern Cross Grammar very engaging and enjoyable during my VCE years,” she said. “My teachers, Dr Basha and Ms Carreon, were wonderful teachers who were passionate about their field of science.

Chloe Su (Class of 2020)

”My favourite memories would have to be the practical classes in both Chemistry and Biology. I recall dissecting a rat, which was a very eye-opening and educating experience, and creating my own experimental design in SCG. Similarly, I enjoyed hands-on practicals in Chemistry. One of my favourites was the

ARE YOU A SOUTHERN CROSS GRAMMAR ALUMNI?

We'd love to keep in contact with you as you move through the world and in your lives with the skills and relationships acquired at Southern Cross Grammar. Scan the QR Code to complete our Alumni Form. SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 29

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At Southern Cross Grammar we are fortunate to have highly qualified educators, leaders and scientists. As well as distinguished teaching careers, many of our staff hold doctorates having completed their own research in their field. Others enjoy decades of industry experience in areas such as electrical engineering and are actively involved in working with universities to prepare the next generation of teachers.

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A QUANTUM STEP FORWARD

The opening of the Centauri Centre and the opportunities it provides for students, staff, families, and the wider community represents a quantum step forward for Southern Cross Grammar. It's hard to believe that in what used to be a grass paddock only a short time ago, now houses a generous auditorium soon to seat 400 people, eagerly supporting the efforts of our Matilda cast; a commercial kitchen that can accommodate up to 28 students, including walk-in freezers, fridges, and other facilities; a restaurant and Year 12 common room that can seat and accommodate up to 100 people; three art rooms; VCE classrooms; and of

THE CENTAURI PROJECT

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course, a third level accommodating Performing Arts, be it music, drama, editing, audiology, or simply rehearsing after school. As well as the many celebrated educational advantages it will bring, the spaces it provides also fill a need and promise to our community to create opportunities for parents and friends of the school to gather, build relationships, and support one another and the school.

Mr Dodd commented: "The Centauri Centre truly represents a significant growth in our offerings to our community. As is the Southern Cross Grammar tradition to acknowledge those who have come before us, we thank those who put forward ideas, sold sausages, held discos, or planted trees they would not enjoy the shade of. We thank the many people in our community who have had the honour of stewardship in leading educational thought and formation of

the school from Mr Ponsford, through to the board members, and the first parents who trusted the school in its foundation years with their children. "Their legacies compel us to be thoughtful and to ensure that we utilise the facilities in the Centauri Centre to the best of our ability, and ensure we embrace everyone's opportunity to experience the joy and opportunities the Centre presents whether it’s a Foundation student, Alumni, or a Year 12 student." Events that used to be weather dependent, assemblies that were proudly held on the green turf beside the Junior School, and PFC evenings that were foreshadowed with positive weather forecasts will now become coffee mornings in the library, presentations in the auditorium, workshops in the collapsible classrooms, or late night restaurant settings so that students can further build their confidence, collaboration, and knowledge. We look forward to the days and nights where students can show our community

the knowledge and skills they have gained through working in the many aspects of the building in our auditorium, cafe, classrooms and other spaces.

It's hard to believe that in what used to be a grass paddock only a short time ago, now houses impressive facilities including a significant Arts centre, 400 seat auditorium, and an expansive senior centre in addition to libraries, cafes and senior classrooms for students, staff, and our community. We are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to invite people both informally and formally into the Centauri Centre. For our students and parents, we want to prioritise a timely access to the centre so that when students come home full of stories of joy and excitement of having spent the day, week or months in the

building, families can picture what that looks like and where the genesis of that excitement has come from. We will publish information on Schoolbox, as soon as we can, with evenings for year levels to tour the facility led by students using the space. This will be followed by more formal opportunities culminating later in the year with an official opening with pre-eminent people in our community and beyond. We will also host events throughout the year with student evenings, musical performances, theatrical offerings, and more. We encourage you to follow the QR code where we will be publishing information about these highly anticipated events. We can't wait to share the joy of the Centauri Centre with our community and those whom have walked with us and encouraged us as we navigated the difficult landscape of a pandemic build.

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IN THEIR OWN WORDS: CLASS OF 2022'S REFLECTION OF THE CENTRE SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 34

In the final week of Term 1 Principal, Matt Dodd, hosted some senior students on a tour of the Centauri Centre. SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 35

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The hallway on the first floor, leading to our new cafe and library area. Students look into the auditorium from the triangle pane on the first floor. A view of the auditorium from the triangle pane. SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 37

WATCH HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE YEAR 12 LEADERSHIP RETREAT SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 38

WATCH THE CLASS OF 2022'S JUMPERS PRESENTATION

LEADERS ON THE RISE Term 1 has been one of joy and excitement for the Class of 2022, as they mark new transitions and milestones as Senior Students at Southern Cross Grammar. The Year 12 Retreat is a highlight for our Year 12 community and this year was no different for the Class of 2022 as they canoed, climbed, swung, and leapt their way through their Leadership Retreat at YMCA Lady Northcote in February. “I’m so proud of how students approached the Retreat, taking responsible risks and challenging themselves to try something new, whether it was canoeing for the first time or facing their fears at the Giant Swing, while balancing this with their VCE preparation” Dr Amer Ibrahim Basha, Head of Year 12, said. Beyond enjoying the great outdoors, the Leadership Retreat was also important for students in preparing for their VCE exams at the end of the Year. Megan Unthank, the Head of Teaching and Learning and Head of VCE, hosted workshops and seminars with students for VCE success, with activities including students calculating projected ATARs and Study Scores using their Year 11 results. “It is important for students to understand how Study Scores are formulated and how they feed into the ATAR so that they can maximise their effort consistently throughout the year,” she said. “Using Year 11 results to calculate projected scores was a powerful method because students were able to reflect on their 2021 work output and commitment, and how that ultimately could have translated into a score. The activity also renewed their drive to achieve success in their final exams.” Like the Alumni before them, the Class of 2022 have shown maturity and ambition in their approach to their first term of Year 12. “The Class of 2022 have displayed high leadership skills and maturity in partnering with their teachers and leadership team as they set their sights beyond Southern Cross Grammar with regards to their future studies, careers, and pathways,” Amer said. Principal, Matt Dodd, said, “Nothing makes me prouder than sitting in a room with students that we are about to release into the world and see them able to speak to their teachers, leadership, and others in ways that are productive and mature. It gives us pride and

confidence about the type of people they will be as Alumni in work, universities and TAFEs after Southern Cross Grammar. It has been a delight to meet with the Class of 2022 to plan events, celebrate their milestones and transitions, and witness their maturity and growing interest in giving back to the school and each other.”

“We began planning our transition last year, and I’m excited that the Class of 2022 will have the opportunity to learn, study, and work in a facility for high performance and excellence.”

The Class of 2022 marked a significant milestone in February with the presentation of their Year 12 Jumpers, signifying their position as leaders in our community. “The presentation of the Year 12 Jumpers is significant for students and our community, as it signifies their position as leaders and role models at Southern Cross Grammar, and represents the importance of Year 12 as their last year as Southern Cross Grammar students,” Amer said. “I’ve enjoyed seeing students wear their jumper with pride on our campus and embody what it means to be a leader in our community.” Another anticipated milestone in our school’s history and for the Class of 2022 is only weeks away as the Centauri Centre nears completion in time for a Term 2 opening for students and staff. With impressive facilities including an expansive senior centre and Year 12 Common Room, the Class of 2022 are looking forward to learning in the new state-of-the-art and pre-tertiary environment. “Everyone in the Year 12 cohort is eager to step foot in the Centauri Centre and experience the university-style learning environment,” Amer said.

During their Year 12 Leadership Retreat students canoed, faced their fears at the Giant Swing, and planned for VCE success. This was later followed by the SCG tradition of presenting the Year 12 Jumpers. SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 39

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READY, SET, PHYSICS!

Year 12 Physics students fastened their seatbelts and held on tight as they explored the physics behind projectile and circular motion during their recent excursion to Luna Park, as part of the Vicphysics Teachers Network’s Luna Park Physics Day event. Equipped with portable data logging

systems, students applied the concepts and theories learnt in class about projectile and circular motion as they competed on dodgem cars, were catapulted into the air, and pulled up and down on rollercoasters. Year 12 Physics teacher, Ravinesh Chandra, said students enjoyed applying their physics knowledge to the rides at the Park, and capturing data which was later analysed on-campus.

racing thrills and rides at Luna Park,” he said. “Physics can be applied to, and features, in our everyday lives. Giving students opportunities to apply their theoretic knowledge in real world events and experiences, and seeing them have that ‘ah-ha’ moment, is always a powerful moment as an educator.”

“It was pleasing to see students apply their physics learning during the heart

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BUDDIES LEAD THE WAY Foundation and Year 5 students have been delighted to form new connections and relationships as part of our Buddy Program. The Buddy Program is a highlight for students, staff and families alike, as students foster long-lasting bonds and fond memories. “Being a buddy is a long-lasting and empowering experience that promotes a strong sense of community and belonging in our school. Our Buddy Program contributes to the creation of a safe, friendly and caring environment in which respect is a key value," Prue Petsinis, Head of Primary, said. “When students met their buddies for the first time, there was sheer joy on their faces. It has been amazing and a positive experience for everyone." For Year 5 student, Lina Anverdeen, watching Foundation students grow and gain confidence in the Primary School has been a delight. “When I first met them [in 2021], they were shy and didn’t have friends yet as they didn’t know each other," she said. "Now you see them exploring our campus, learning new skills and playing on the playground together.

They really look like they’ve settled in and look like any other student enjoying their day.” Foundation teachers, Luke Nguyen and Suzan Kibar, have enjoyed watching their students make new friends and find their feet in their first term at SCG. “The buddy system has helped the Foundation students feel safe and connected to the school community, and we look forward to the long-lasting bonds that will form as a result of the Program,” they said. In speaking about the Buddy Program and how the Year 5s have embodied our school’s values as leaders, Principal, Matt Dodd said, “I’m so delighted that our Foundation students’ first experience of power and leadership has been one which has been used to make them feel safe through kindness and caring for each other. “It’s a real privilege to lead and I'm so pleased our Foundation students have mentors who model this behaviour and way of leadership.”

Year 5 students have enjoyed spending time with their Foundation buddies.

“There are only 200 Carpet Pythons left in the wild,” Nazra Y said, “and my favourite moment was when Ben brought out Vinny and I got to pet him.” At Southern Cross Grammar, we value one another and our surroundings. This extends from our community and campus to the creatures that can be found onsite such as birds, butterflies, and small insects. Beyond meeting our native animals, the incursion also focused on instilling respect for nature at an early age as Year 4 teachers, Nissa Caldwell and Cindy Thlimenos, explained.

WILDLIFE, UP CLOSE

“It is important to instil respect for nature at an early age while preserving the idea that conservation is necessary in maintaining Australia’s rich wildlife.

As part of their Science studies on living things and life cycles, Year 4 students encountered wildlife up close during their incursion with Reptile Encounters.

"We wanted students to know about the lifecycles of animals they would meet and touch, and maybe even leave the session with a passion for conservation.”

Highlights from the incursion included meeting and interacting with some of Australia’s unique native animals, such as Socks the Sugar Glider, Cheryl the Spiny Leaf Insect, and Charlie the Salt Water Crocodile, and learning about them from

a Reptile Encounters' wildlife expert. For Abhinoor Kaur, being nuzzled by Roman the Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo was her favourite part of the incursion. She said, “When Roman the Cockatoo kissed me, it tickled me so much.” With only 200 Carpet Pythons left in the wild, students were privileged to encounter Vinny the Carpet Python as part of the presentation, and pet him.

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A healthy body is an important part of students’ wellbeing. Our Primary School students find joy in movement as part of their sports curriculum. Year 5 and Foundation students enjoy time together in the playground during their Buddy Program. SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 46

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Joy and wonder as our primary students celebrate the Lunar New Year and acknowledged the Year of the Tiger, with a Lion Dance performance by the Jowgakuen Lion Dance Troupe. SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 49

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ROLE MODELS RULE On International Women's Day our Year 1 students, the Class of 2033, came to school dressed as the role models they admire. With International Women’s Day coinciding with their humanities unit on the past and present, Year 1 teachers Cara Sharpe and Shannen Spiteri saw International Women’s Day as a way to consolidate students' learning about the young girls and women who have changed the world.

When speaking about the event, Prue Petsinis, Head of Primary said, “As educators, International Women’s Day and indeed every day, provides us with opportunities to be role models for our young women. We want our young women to be fiercely independent, to have a voice, and have agency in “We thought what better way to make our their own future. Through days like lessons in looking at the past and present International Women’s Day, we are able to shine a light on the aspirations our relevant to our students by including young women hold." International Women’s Day and educate students on how girls and women are For Shannen, having arrived at school changing the world, while recognising dressed as New Zealand Prime Minister how far we’ve come in improving gender Jacinda Arden, International Women’s equality, and how far we have to go,” Day is a reminder of the important role Cara said. our students have in building a future Powerful female figures included Kalpana where everyone is equal. Chawla the first Indian woman to go to space, environmental activist Greta Thunburg, Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, and women close to home including airplane engineers, dentists, and scientists During the class’ International Women’s Day event, students and their teachers discussed the women who inspire them.

She said, ”I hope that our students, especially the young girls in our classes, have been inspired and empowered by our International Women’s Day studies, and know that as our future, they too have the power to break barriers and biases to make even greater change.”

Sienna Saini came to school dressed as Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo.

WATCH HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EVENT “I'm beyond proud of our Year 8 cricket team, led by Eshaan Desai, Simar Tokhi, Jakkarin Moore and Zayaan Tabish, on their win at the Maribyrnong Division Cricket Championships," Sports teacher and coach, Michael Pell, said. "We look forward to their next challenge in November at the Western Metropolitan event."

Our Year 8 Cricket team have had a victorious start to the sporting season.

YEAR 8 CRICKET SUCCESS Having achieved cricketing success as SCG’s first cricket team in 2021, our Year 8 team have had a victorious start to the interschool sporting season, coming first place the Year 8 Maribyrnong Division Cricket Championships and qualifying for SCG MAGAZINE: ISSUE 5 • 52

the Western Metropolitan Region Finals. The team’s success comes as part of students’ return to interschool sports. In addition to cricket, students have competed in sports including volleyball, tennis, and swimming.

Simar Tokhi credits the team's success to his team mates' passion for the game, both at school and in their local communities, and their ambition to be the best cricketers they can be. "Most of my team mates play cricket at school and out of school in our local clubs," he said. "Playing cricket at recess and lunchtime, and during the cricket season outside school means we have a lot of game knowledge and skills to play a great game. "It feels great to have won our first game of the season (especially after also winning last year) and qualifying for Regionals, as we will be competing against tougher opponents. We want to be the best and win Regionals. That would be great, as we like a good challenge."

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SETTING THE STAGE FOR MATILDA Students and staff are preparing to transport audiences into new worlds with Matilda the Musical set to hit the Southern Cross Grammar stage later this year. The internationally acclaimed and awardwinning musical, inspired by Roald Dahl’s beloved classic: Matilda, is set to be the first production held in the Centauri Centre’s new auditorium later this year, and stars Dhanvi Sharma (Lead) and Rose Camilleri (Understudy) as Matilda. “Matilda the Musical signifies a new and exciting phase of our Music and Performing Arts Program, and we look forward to the many outstanding performances from our talented students,” Robert Graham, Technical Director and Head of Music and Performing Arts, said. With the Musical’s rehearsals and planning underway as the Centauri Centre nears completion, Matilda the Musical will be one not to be missed, with its thrilling plot and high energy performances. Director, Toly Swenko, said, “Audiences can expect entertaining and dynamic performances from our students as they portray a number of iconic roles. Be prepared to be absorbed in the Musical’s clever and witty plot with a catchy, yet intricate musical score.”

Producer, Maddison Attard, said: “The history with the cast because we’ll be the cast, creative team, and staff’s passion first ever production that performs in the and ambition to make Matilda the Musical Centauri building.” a success has been a massive highlight. We have had students making costumes, building props, designing sets, and preparing to take to the stage." For Dhanvi and Rose, joining the league of powerhouse performers who have played the iconic role of Matilda has been a powerful experience, and has seen them take inspiration from the character’s confidence and bravery as they prepare to bring the Musical to Caroline Springs. “I feel really excited to be playing the role of Matilda,” Dhanvi said. “Matilda loves reading books, is really intelligent and loves Maths —which I also do— and that’s what I love about her. Playing Matilda fills me with confidence, especially when I think about her and her intelligence, and I can’t wait to bring her to life in the new auditorium.” When speaking about her experience being part of the Musical, Rose said, “As Matilda’s Understudy being part of the Musical is being part of something special, especially since the Musical is worldwide known and is coming to SCG. “Working with the cast and Dhanvi has been amazing and I feel like I’m making

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Dhanvi (left) and Rose (right) rehearse their lines for the production. Dhanvi Sharma performs at an afterschool rehearsal.

PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS

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Our Stage Production and Creative team have been hard at work behind the scenes, building and designing props for the Musical

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HITTING THE TRACK RUNNING The SCG grounds were bright with our vibrant house colours as students took to the oval to compete in our F-12 Cross Country and other athletic activities on 30 March.

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TERM 2, 2022

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