Community Engagement Officer
Susie Wills (Patteson 1991) swills@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au
Archivist
Simone McAuliffe (nee Hall, Selwyn 1990) smcauliffe@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au
Marketing & Communications Manager
Rachel Politis rpolitis@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au
We have so much to be proud of at St Peter’s Girls’ School. The opening of the Emily Centre marks a significant milestone for our community and is a moment worthy of celebration. It is also a time for reflection on those who founded our School, laying the foundations for it to flourish into the exceptional girls’ school it is today, with an outstanding learning culture.
Our state-of-the-art Emily Centre has been fittingly named in honour of Mother Emily Ayckbowm. An upper-class Englishwoman, Mother Emily was deeply moved by the poverty she witnessed in the slums of London. In 1870, she founded the Community of the Sisters of the Church, an Anglican order dedicated to providing social services and education for those in need. She sent
Sisters to Canada, India, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia to establish schools for girls.
In the early 1890s, Bishop Kennion invited Mother Emily to send Sisters to Adelaide. This led to the purchase of a property on Kermode Street in North Adelaide in December 1892, which became St Peter’s Girls’ School, now the site of the Women’s and Children’s Hospital. The property included a house and stables, with an Assembly Hall added later. The School opened on 8 October 1894 with just four pupils, and enrolments grew steadily over the following two decades.
Between 1892 and 1926, the Community of the Sisters of the Church established seven schools across Australia and New Zealand. Six of these schools
remain today, with five continuing their commitment to girls’ education. The Sisters were dedicated to providing an education that nurtured well-rounded individuals who would contribute meaningfully beyond the school gates, a commitment that continues to shape our mission today:
At St Peter’s Girls’ School, we provide outstanding educational opportunities for students from Early Learning to Year 12 in an engaging, collaborative and dynamic environment. Since 1894, the School has built upon the legacy of our founding Sisters, who were brave pioneers of girls’ education. Their vision and determination continue to resonate, guiding our holistic approach to education, where students are encouraged to challenge, serve and lead
with integrity and imagination in a global society.
There is a clear common thread across the six Emily school emblems. The cross featured in each represents Mother Emily’s Community of the Sisters of the Church and has been consistently used in schools established by the Sisters worldwide.
Each year, we honour our graduates with a ring bearing this cross. In 2025, for the first time, this cherished Saints Girls’ tradition was shared more publicly, with rings presented on stage at Presentation Night. Receiving this ring connects our graduates to generations of students who have come before them since 1894.
Another treasured tradition is our House system, established in 1927. Kennion, Patteson and Selwyn Houses are named after Anglican Bishops, while Kilburn House takes its name from the London location of the Mother House of the Community of the Sisters of the Church. Students with family connections are placed in the same House, strengthening
Since 1894, the School has built upon the legacy of our founding Sisters, who were brave pioneers of girls’ education.
intergenerational ties. Alongside friendly competition, each House supports a nominated charity, providing meaningful opportunities for students to demonstrate compassion through service.
From the 1930s, there was increasing pressure from the Women’s and Children’s Hospital, adjacent to our Kermode Street site, to purchase the School. In 1949, Sister Scholastica
secured a new site in Erindale (later renamed Stonyfell), on land owned by the Ferguson family, with Chiverton House as a defining feature.
Fundraising soon began for a major classroom building, known as the Main Building and in 1957, the new campus was officially opened by the Governor of South Australia, Sir Robert George, alongside Sister Gabrielle, then Principal of St Peter’s Girls’ School. The Sisters’ vision continued with the construction of the Chapel, completed in 1964.
Every day, I feel a deep sense of honour and pride in leading a school that continues to thrive after 131 years.
Students, Old Scholars, families, and both current and past staff, along with our wider community, are justifiably proud of all that St Peter’s Girls’ School represents: a girls’ school that inspires women of character and influence.
This pride was powerfully captured in Mollie Kennett’s 2025 Head Prefect address at Presentation Night. She reflected:
"Now, I trust we are all well-versed with the familiar saying that “there is no I in team,” and it is much the same here; although, individually we Saints girls possess courage, creativity and compassion. When we unite and come together, those qualities do not merely add up, they amplify, so that each voice, each risk taken, each act of kindness, and each success lifts the other members of that community higher and leaves the sisterhood of our School stronger than before.
One of the things I’ve come to appreciate about Saints is how much this place quietly shapes us without us even noticing. It’s not just the classes, or the assessments, or the uniforms we’ve worn for what feels like a lifetime. It’s the little everyday moments woven through our years here: the waves in the corridor, the teachers who somehow knew when you needed a bit of extra help, the friends who turned lunchtimes into laughter that made you forget about the not so good thing that happened just before.
To conclude, I would like to offer a heartfelt thank you to everyone here tonight. Personally, I would like to
Mother Emily Aychbowm and her Community of the Sisters of the Church would be immensely proud of our students and St Peter’s Girls' School today.
express my deepest appreciation for the kindness and unwavering belief the entire St Peter’s Girls’ community has poured into me this year.
Keep nurturing the sisterhood that is so central to our School; it’s not automatic, it’s what you create every day through support and shared spirit."
Mother Emily Ayckbowm and her Community of the Sisters of the Church would be immensely proud of our students and St Peter’s Girls' School today. I hope that Mother Emily would also be touched to have our new building named in her honour.
CHERYLYN SKEWES PRINCIPAL
The start of Term 2 was filled with excitement and pride as students and staff stepped into the newly opened Emily Centre for the very first time. As they explored the light-filled, stateof-the-art facility, there was an immediate sense of energy and possibility.
ELC to Year 12 students were captivated by the impressive new facilities, including the expansive double-court gym with House names displayed in vibrant colours. The Performing Arts spaces have been especially well received, thoughtfully designed in collaboration with staff
to support student learning. Bright classrooms, welcoming breakout areas, and contemporary amenities have all contributed to a strong sense of enthusiasm and belonging. Across the Centre, our values of courage, creativity and compassion are evident in the way students are already engaging with their learning, exploring new opportunities, and taking pride in their School community.
I am delighted to share the outstanding academic achievements of our 2025 Year 12 SACE and IB students. Throughout the year, these students embodied our School values of Courage, Creativity, and Compassion, demonstrating unwavering dedication and resilience in all their endeavours.
Median SACE ATAR 94.00
We congratulate our Emily Medal recipient, Rongxin Shao (SACE) as our 2025 Dux of School, whose ATAR result placed her in the top 0.1% nationally. Rongxin achieved a Merit in Mathematical Methods and English B HL, alongside two University High Distinctions.
Our 2025 Dux of IB, Ashani Amarathunga, achieved outstanding results with Merits in Chemistry HL, English A: Literature HL, Physics SL and Mathematical Analysis and Approaches SL.
I also congratulate our Bessie Hill Memorial Medal recipients, Siqi (Maggie) Zheng (IB School Assessment-based Dux) and Olivia Park (SACE School Assessment-based Dux), whose consistent excellence across their studies reflects both academic rigour and a deep commitment to learning.
We also acknowledge the outstanding leadership of our 2025 Head Prefect, Mollie Kennett, whose contribution to our School community was recognised with the Governor of South Australia Commendation Excellence Award.
39 percent of our 2025 SACE Stage 2 students achieved an ATAR of 95+, placing them in the top 5% of the country. There were 36 Merits, 77 A+ grades and 21 University Distinctions/High Distinctions achieved.
St Peter’s Girls’ School is proud to be the only all-girls school in South Australia offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, and our 2025 IB cohort continues to set a high standard of academic learning with 26 Subject Merits and over two-thirds of all IB grades achieved in the A band.
Congratulations to every Year 12 student on your achievement. You should feel incredibly proud of all you’ve accomplished. I extend my sincere gratitude to the teachers, staff, parents, guardians, families, and the entire St Peter’s Girls’ community for their steadfast support.
95+ of SACE students achieved an ATAR of 95+ 39%
99.90 top ATAR achieved in 2025
Median IB score well above the global average of 30.58 36.5
62
Merit awards across 30 SACE and IB subjects
21 University level Distinctions & High Distinctions achieved
Governor of South Australia Commendation Excellence Award 1 65% of all IB subject grades were achieved in the A band A
There were many individual success stories; a special mention goes to:
RONGXIN SHAO
2025 SACE AND SCHOOL DUX
AWARDS: Merits in Mathematical Methods and English B HL and two University High Distinctions.
ASHANI AMARATHUNGA
2025 IB DUX
AWARDS: Merits in Chemistry HL, English A: Literature HL, Physics SL and Mathematical Analysis and Approaches SL.
OLIVIA PARK
2025 SACE BESSIE HILL MEMORIAL MEDAL RECIPIENT
AWARDS: Merits in English, Nutrition and Research Project B and and two University High Distinctions.
2025 IB PROXIME ACCESSIT AND BESSIE HILL MEMORIAL MEDAL RECIPIENT
AWARDS: Merits in English B HL, Chemistry SL, Physics HL and Mathematical Analysis and Approaches SL and an A for Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay (combined).
LILLY MICHELON
2025 SACE PROXIME ACCESSIT
AWARDS: Merits in English, Biology and Chemistry and two University High Distinctions.
MOLLIE KENNETT
GOVERNOR OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
COMMENDATION EXCELLENCE AWARD
AWARDS: Merits in English Literary Studies, General Mathematics and Drama.
Ashani Amarathunga
Chemistry HL, Physics SL, Mathematics Analysis and Approaches SL, English A: literature HL
Jackie Balasis
English
Georgia Cowie
Theatre HL
Yajing (Sable) Ding
Chinese B - Mandarin HL
Asha Eaton
Modern History, General Mathematics
Emma Everitt
Chemistry HL, Mathematics
Applications and Interpretation SL
Abigail Hawkes
Activating Identities and Futures
Matilda Joy Research Project B
Mollie Kennett
Drama, General Mathematics, English Literary Studies
Emily Ketteridge
Food and Hospitality
Carys Kinsella-White
English
Yunqi (Anna) Lin
English B HL, Chemistry HL, Mathematics Analysis and Approaches SL
Zi Yi (Shirley ) Liu
Chinese B - Mandarin SL
Lily Marshall Activating Identities and Futures
Charlotte McAuliffe General Mathematics
Lilly Michelon English, Chemistry, Biology
Alice Morel French B HL
Myat (Daisy) Thazin Chinese B - Mandarin HL
Zoe Min O'Callaghan Drama, Dance
Alexandra Nguyen Dance
Olivia Park Nutrition, English, Research Project B
Matilda Powell English
Grace Richardson-Stevens Global Politics HL
Rongxin Shao Mathematical Methods, English B HL
Francine Stavrou General Mathematics, Modern History
Kunyu (Winnie) Tian Research Project B
Alyssa Tran Food and Hospitality
Aliya Trench Psychology
Zara Trim Business Innovation
Anna Venning Food and Hospitality
Nephli Vidana Ralalage General Mathematics
Ella Warrick Physical Education
Ellie Webber Food and Hospitality
Georgie Williams Food and Hospitality, General Mathematics
Alyssa Walpole Dance
Ke (Martina) Zhang Physics SL
Wenhan (Clemetine) Zhao Physics SL
Xijing (Bella) Zhao
Spanish ab initio SL, Economics HL, English A: Literature SL
Siqi (Maggie) Zheng
English B HL, Physics HL, Chemistry SL, Mathematics Analysis and Approaches HL, TOK/Psych EE
As well as achieving outstanding academic results, the Class of 2025...
Accumulated
21,825
Pocket Points
In 2025, Year 12 students...
Participated in over 40 different co-curricular offerings, including sports, performing arts, debating, philosophy and so much more!
Participated in 2451 sport sessions across 18 different sports collectively. 37 Year 12s competed in SSSA/IGSSA Carnivals, and 11 students mentored younger girls in their chosen sports.
25% of Year 12 students participated in Music co-curricular offerings.
61% of the cohort gave back to the community through involvement in our Service Learning programs.
We commenced 2026 excited to share with the community our new Wellbeing Framework and definition. The Framework and definition will be used to guide and shape our approach to student wellbeing here at Saints Girls to ensure the best outcomes for our girls. This Framework will also help to ensure that all sub-schools are taking a similar approach and achieving the same outcomes which will provide greater consistency for our girls across their school journey.
The project took just over a year and a half involving students from the Junior School through to the Senior School from the beginning. Initially, students provided words, sentiments and insights on what they believed wellbeing looked like or what they wanted wellbeing to be at Saints Girls. Staff were also offered the same opportunity to share their thoughts and insights into wellbeing. Following this, a drafted version was shared with staff and students again to ensure their thoughts and voices were captured. These final workshops with
students generated excellent conversation and demonstrated that the girls could understand, relate to and explain the Framework and definition in their own words with reference to their daily lives. Our definition reads…
‘At St Peter’s Girls’ School, student wellbeing is defined as having a positive sense of self-worth, the confidence and skills to embrace challenges and a sense of belonging to our community. Through a holistic approach to their educational journey, our girls are supported to maintain healthy habits and routines, to challenge themselves for continual growth and to reflect to ensure they develop into young people who are courageous, creative and compassionate.’
With a deliberate connection to our values of courage, creativity and compassion, our girls are supported to embrace challenges for personal growth, to maintain positive habits while
encouraging their sense of belonging to our community.
Our Framework has our girls at the core, closely surrounded by our values. As the circle’s move outwards, programs such as #EmpowHer, URSTRONG and Service Learning serve as a reminder of the ways in which we can deliver wellbeing content. Finally, the outer circle displays the skills and attributes we believe our girls will develop. Known as the Social and Emotional skills, these are recognised globally as attributes of which we aspire young people to develop and build upon throughout their educational journey.
LAUREN SUTTON DEPUTY PRINCIPAL AND HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL
At Saints Girls, sisterhood is at the heart of who we are. It’s the everyday kindness, courage, and care that connects us across year levels and experiences. Each year, the Prefect Team chooses a theme that reflects what we value most as a community, what we want to nurture, celebrate, and pass on. This year, we’re proud to introduce the 2026 Prefect Initiative, #Here4Her, which captures the spirit of belonging, encouragement, and support that defines life at Saints Girls. #Here4Her is all about celebrating and uplifting the girls around us, making sure that every student feels seen, valued, and supported in their journey. It’s about building a culture where kindness isn’t an afterthought but a habit, and where compassion and courage guide how we show up for one another. It’s also about empowering women through celebrating our voices, our ideas, and the ways we lift each other up. Through this initiative, we hope to continue fostering a culture where everyone feels confident and inspired to be their authentic self.
Each term, we’ll explore a different way to bring that sisterhood to life. For Term 1, we’re excited to introduce #HereForOneAnother, a theme that
focuses on support, inclusion, and encouragement. We chose this initiative because being here for one another is what sisterhood truly means. It is displayed by standing with each other through challenges and triumphs, showing up at events to cheer our friends on, and celebrating the moments (big and small) that strengthen our community. This initiative reminds us that it’s through these actions, and our shared Saints Girls' spirit, that our community truly thrives.
Being #HereForOneAnother isn’t about grand gestures, it’s about the little
things that matter most. It’s in the way we speak to one another with kindness and patience, the way we invite others into our conversations, and the way we notice when someone may need a little extra support. These moments may seem small, but they have the power to make someone feel genuinely cared for. Every act of care helps create the sense of connection and warmth that makes Saints so special. By embracing growth and respecting our differences, we don’t just grow as individuals – we grow as a community.
As we begin this new year together, we hope #HereForOneAnother reminds everyone that no one walks their journey alone. Whether you’re just starting out, settling in, or preparing for their final year, there’s always someone here to listen, lift you up and cheer you on.
We can’t wait to see how the Saints Girls' community brings #Here4Her to life throughout the year by showing up for one another, participating wholeheartedly, and continuing to build a School culture where everyone feels supported, empowered, and inspired to be their best.
CHLOE
RICHARDSON & ABIGAIL HAWKES HEAD & DEPUTY HEAD PREFECTS
DATE SATURDAY 29 AUGUST 2026
TIME 6PM – LATE
VENUE VICTORIA PARK SOCIAL CLUB, FULLARTON ROAD, ADELAIDE
TICKETS $180 PER PERSON
DRESS COCKTAIL ATTIRE
RSVP FRIDAY 7 AUGUST
Tickets include food and drinks, plus a signature Saints Spritz on arrival. We have exclusive use of the venue until 11pm. The food and drinks package included in the ticket price will run until 9pm, the bar will remain open for guests to kick on and purchase refreshments.
A focus at the beginning of the school year for the Middle School is providing students with experiences that allow them to build a strong foundation as a team, connecting with their peers and Home Group Teacher outside the classroom.
Our Outdoor and Experiential Education program runs from Years 7 to 10, with overnight camp experiences that take students to different places in our state, that gradually increase in challenge. Our Year 7 and Year 8 cohorts each embarked on a four night camp, with the goals of developing positive relationships with themselves, with others, and with the natural world. These camps had the students sleeping in tents in pairs or groups of three. Students had to utilise their skills of negotiation and conflict resolution to ensure the group dynamics were managed, their skills in organisation in putting up and packing
Our Year 9 Becoming Program, providing our students the opportunity to foster and develop meaningful school relationships.
down tents, and their resilience in not having access to their usual comforts of home. Both cohorts had to be organised, actively listen to instructions, and apply their problem-solving skills to navigate challenges throughout the week. They
were responsible for planning, sourcing and preparing one dinner meal on trangia’s.
Year 7
Year 7 travelled to Robe, in the South East of South Australia, to participate in kayaking, beach activities, bushwalking, and adventure caving in Naracoorte.
Year 8
Year 8 travelled to Kangaroo Island, where the itinerary for the week offered a number of opportunities to explore a range of iconic locations:
Bushwalking around Flinders Chase National Park
Sandboarding at Little Sahara
Birds of prey show at Raptor Domain
Fishing, swimming, and snorkelling at Stokes Bay
Caving at Kelly Hill
Year 9 students participated in a two-day Aquatics and Team Building Experience. This was an important part of our Year 9 Becoming Program, providing our students the opportunity to foster and develop meaningful School relationships. On the Aquatics Day, students travelled to Murraylands Aquatic Centre on the Murray River. Whilst there, they rotated through activities led by professionals including kayaking, knee-boarding, water skiing, sailing, and windsurfing. On the team building day, students were at School and worked in their Home Groups. They participated in team-building activities run by Beyond the Classroom, having to support and encourage each other to navigate obstacle courses as individuals and a whole group, as well as working together in small groups to create aqueducts. All of the the activities challenged our girls' communication and problem-solving skills, and required teamwork, determination and resilience.
EMMA SMERDON HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL
From
This year, the Junior School is united by a strong sense of connection, as our girls, families and staff come together through shared experiences that celebrate both individual growth and community spirit.
From the outset, events such as the Year 5 Bowling Night have set the tone, creating a relaxed and welcoming space where new families can connect and friendships can begin to form. In the early years, the ELC and Reception Easter activity offered a meaningful opportunity for children and families to reconnect and spend time together, strengthening bonds across our community.
This spirit of togetherness is evident in the way families engage alongside the girls. At the Year 3 Sport and BBQ Afternoon, parents joined in the action, reflecting the shared enthusiasm that underpins our approach to learning
Together, these shared experiences celebrate the achievements of our girls and our vibrant Saints Girls' community.
and co-curricular life. Events such as the Interhouse Cross Country and the Years 4 to 12 Swimming Carnival also brought our community together, with strong House spirit and encouragement from the sidelines creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere.
Milestone moments, including the Year 6 Leadership Induction Ceremony and High Tea, highlight the importance of recognising growth within a supportive community. Celebrated alongside families and staff, these occasions acknowledge not only achievement but the collective pride that helps our girls step confidently into leadership.
Our commitment to connection extends beyond events. Opportunities such as the STEM Careers Parent Information Evening, presented by Professor Giselle Rampersad from Flinders University, brought families together to explore future pathways for girls. Families also heard from two early career engineers: Emilia, a degree apprentice at ASC studying Mechanical Engineering, and Alyssa, a Lead Signatures Engineer at ASC. Together, their perspectives brought STEM pathways to life in a relatable and inspiring way.
Looking ahead, events including Sports Day, Book Week, the Year 5 Musical, the Year 6 PYP Exhibition, and upcoming music and dance concerts will continue to bring our community together. Gatherings such as the Mothers’ and Special Friends' Breakfast, Fathers’ and Special Friends' Breakfast, the Junior School Art Trail, and Grandparents’ Day will further strengthen these connections.
It is through these shared experiences, both big and small, that our community continues to grow. Together, we celebrate not only the achievements of our girls, but the sense of belonging and connection that defines the Junior School at Saints Girls.
MARIKA TAYLOR HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL
At St Peter's Girls’ Early Learners' Centre, we believe that early childhood education extends far beyond the individual child; it is grounded in relationships, connection, and community. We do not simply enrol a child; we welcome a family into a vibrant, collaborative learning environment. This philosophy is deeply aligned with the principles of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), Australia’s national framework for early childhood education, particularly the notion that secure, respectful and reciprocal relationships are foundational to children’s learning and wellbeing.
From the very first enrolment conversation, we intentionally begin building partnerships with families. These relationships are nurtured through thoughtful touchpoints including orientation visits, welcome evenings, parent-teacher conversations, and the opportunities to celebrate learning.
These opportunities invite families into the learning process, positioning them not as observers, but as active participants in their child’s educational journey.
We view families as co-constructors of knowledge and essential partners in supporting their child’s learning journey at ELC. We recognise that families are children’s first teachers, bringing deep knowledge, culture, and insight that enrich our curriculum. When families experience a strong sense of belonging, this is reflected in the child’s own identity, security, and wellbeing. This aligns with the EYLF, in particular Outcome 1 which focuses on children developing a strong sense of identity, feeling safe, secure, confident, and supported in who they are.
Our ELC community is intentionally designed to foster connection, not only between educators and families, but also among families themselves.
Through events such as our Twilight Picnic, Coffee Mornings, Mothers' and Treasured Friends' Afternoon Tea, Fathers' and Treasured Friends' Afternoon Tea, and End of Year Celebration, we create meaningful opportunities for relationships to flourish. These gatherings are more than social events; they are spaces where connections deepen, meaningful relationships are formed, and a strong sense of community and belonging are nurtured.
A particularly special initiative this year was our ELC Easter experience, a community event that brought together children and families from both Pathway and Reception. By creating opportunities for children and families to connect within the broader School environment, we strengthened continuity of learning while also building a shared sense of community and belonging. Importantly, this was not a stand-alone experience,
Connections deepen, meaningful relationships are formed and a strong sense of community and belonging is nurtured.
but part of a broader approach to supporting children as they transition into Reception and the wider School community. Through these connections, children develop familiarity with people, spaces, and routines, helping them feel more confident, secure, and connected as they move into the next stage of their learning journey. Research consistently highlights that positive transition experiences support children’s emotional wellbeing and confidence, reinforcing their sense of belonging.
Within our ELC, we have also strengthened connections between families through the work of our Parent Representatives. These Representatives act as a welcoming point of contact for new families, fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging within our community. They support communitybuilding by organising events such as picnics and other informal opportunities for families to connect and build
relationships beyond the classroom.
This reflects a strong belief that relationships are central to children’s learning and wellbeing. When families feel connected and supported within the ELC community, this sense of belonging is shared with their children, strengthening their confidence, identity, and engagement.
Guided by our Quality Improvement Plan, a requirement under the National Quality Framework that supports our ongoing cycle of reflection and continuous improvement, we are continuing to explore innovative ways to deepen family engagement. This focus sits within Quality Area 1: Educational Program and Practice, which guides how we plan, implement, and reflect on children’s learning.
One of our key goals is to develop intentional documentation strategies that invite genuine family participation.
We aim to create flexible and inclusive pathways for families to contribute to pedagogical decision-making and curriculum design. This work is underpinned by the understanding that learning is a shared, collaborative process between children, educators, and families.
An important addition to our environment this year is our Wellbeing Wall and Parent Library. Developed collaboratively by our Wellbeing Leader, Atelierista and Pedagogical Coordinator, this space offers families access to resources on child development, wellbeing, and local support services. Importantly, it is designed as a responsive and evolving space, shaped by the voices and needs of our community. Families are invited to contribute suggestions, ensuring the resources remain relevant and meaningful. This initiative reflects our commitment to creating a culture of support, where families feel informed, empowered, and connected.
At the heart of our work is a simple yet powerful belief: children belong at the centre of our community. When children are supported to participate, contribute, and have their voices heard, they develop a strong sense of agency and citizenship, understanding that they are valued members of their community who can influence their world. As educators, our role is to act as facilitators and connectors, creating environments where relationships flourish and learning is co-constructed through shared experiences. By nurturing strong partnerships with families and placing community at the core of our practice, we provide a rich, inclusive, and meaningful early learning experience for every child.
LIZ SCHEMBRI DIRECTOR OF EARLY LEARNERS' CENTRE
It’s been a vibrant and action-packed start to the year, with students embracing opportunities in the classroom, on the stage, on the sports field and beyond. From memorable events and achievements to everyday moments of connection and learning, these pictures capture the excitement, spirit and energy of Term 1.
There is something powerful that happens when girls are given the opportunity to step into worlds they have not yet imagined for themselves.
At this year’s Girls in Tech Expo, that moment happened again and again.
Welcoming Year 5 and 6 students from across Adelaide, the Expo is designed to shift thinking at a critical point in a girl’s development when curiosity is high, confidence is forming, and ideas about the future are just beginning to take shape. The day offers more than exposure to technology; it offers permission to explore, question and see themselves in spaces they may not yet have considered.
From the outset, the experience is immersive. Our robotic dog, Alpha, greeted students on arrival, sparking excitement that this would be a day of doing, not just observing.
Throughout the day, students engaged directly with researchers, engineers, cybersecurity specialists and entrepreneurs.
Across workshops and the Innovation Hub, students moved beyond passive learning into active discovery. They coded, built, tested, analysed and problem-solved, experiencing the satisfaction of working through real
challenges. Technology became something they could manipulate and understand not something distant or abstract.What transforms the experience is the people.
The day was opened by keynote speaker Associate Professor Melissa Humphries, whose work in mathematics and explainable AI explores how humans and technology can work together to solve complex problems. Her message was both empowering and grounding, encouraging students to trust their thinking, embrace complexity and recognise that curiosity and creativity are central to STEM.
Throughout the day, students engaged directly with researchers, engineers, cybersecurity specialists and entrepreneurs. These are not hypothetical pathways; they are real conversations with professionals who bring STEM to life. In the Future Me – Big
Sister Mentor Zone, these interactions deepened. Questions became more personal. Pathways became clearer. Possibility became tangible. It is here that something shifts.
STEM is no longer seen as distant or fixed. It becomes creative, dynamic and human—shaped by curiosity, collaboration and diverse ways of thinking.
Across the day, there is a growing sense of momentum. Girls encourage one another, share discoveries and approach challenges with increasing confidence. What begins as playful exploration evolves into deeper engagement with complex ideas.
Our APEX student leaders play a vital role in shaping this experience, guiding visiting students with warmth and confidence, while modelling leadership within a STEM-rich environment.
Girls in Tech Expo is not simply about showcasing technology. It is about reframing how girls see themselves in relation to it creating a shift from curiosity to confidence, and from interest to possibility.
When girls experience STEM actively, creatively and alongside those already shaping the field, they begin to see they do not just belong in these spaces. they can help define them.
MELISSA LEE STEM INNOVATION LEADER
The 2025/26 Rowing season concluded with the 2026 SA Schools’ Head of the River on Saturday 14 March. Saints Girls fielded our largest ever contingent of girls, with 80 students competing across 16 crews, with our students achieving some incredible results, winning no fewer than eight divisions.
These results meant that for the second year running, St Peter’s Girls’ School
won more divisions of the schoolgirl competition than any other school – an outstanding accomplishment by our girls!
Equally impressive was the quality of our girls’ performances, with crews setting season best times and the spirit in which they were achieved, with our trademark courage and support for each other on full display all day.
1st Schoolgirl Year 9/10 B Coxed Quad – Alison Smith Cup
Emily Boase, Matilda Birmingham, Matilda Davidson, Layla Dodd, Lois Burton-Howard (cox), Caroline McNally (coach)
1st Schoolgirl Year 8/9 B Coxed Quad
Antra Docherty, Charlotte Di Blasio, Ruby Pahuja, Natalia Quinn, Zoe Curtis (cox), Emma Hall-Craggs (coach)
1st Schoolgirl Year 8/9 C Coxed Quad
Juliette Tang, Emily Ebert, Anisha Pahuja, Evangeline Cowie, Rachael Jaques (cox), Brynley Millward (Coach)
1st Schoolgirl Year 8/9 D Coxed Quad
Kayla Medefindt, Alice Richards, Lucy Roberts, Chloe Li, Alexandra Teh (cox), Georgia Mallick (coach)
Thank you to all the students and families that attended Head of the River and supported our crews throughout the day. I am always struck by the incredible School spirit that is shown at Head of the River; the way that our students support one another is part of what makes the culture of Saints Girls truly special.
As always, our sincere thanks also go to the Friends of Rowing for their efforts
1st Schoolgirl Year 8/9 E Coxed Quad
Georgie Baghurst, Wynter Nasaris, Mika Valmorbida, Christine Zhang, Lily Shean (cox), Nicole Tesch Ornelas (coach)
1st Schoolgirl Year 8/9 F Coxed Quad
Bessie Kennett, Valencia Capobianco, Willow Chong, Elizabeth Layton, Sophie Edwards (cox), Emily Dagas (coach)
1st Schoolgirl Year 8/9 G Coxed Quad
Yolanda Wang, Mia Wen, Jessie Xin, Francesca Siegele, Nicole He (cox), Olivia Christensen (coach)
1st Schoolgirl Year 8/9 H Coxed Quad
Jessica Holland, Annika Gajula, Sophia Bamford, Amelia Birmingham, Audrey Manudhane (cox), Archie Young (coach)
in setting up for the day and making the Saints Girls’ marquee a festive environment for our community. They provided an incredible atmosphere at the marquee, supplying food and refreshments, and welcoming our School community to West Lakes.
This year also saw the introduction of a new hosting model for Head of the River, with Saints Girls and three other schools sharing the hosting responsibilities.
A huge amount of work went into preparing for the event, organising volunteers and preparing to fulfil our hosting obligations. Thank you to all the Old Scholars, current students, parents, and staff that volunteered and helped with our co-hosting responsibilities. It was a monumental effort, but the sea of Saints Girls volunteers on the finish pontoon, all clad in blue was a testament to our incredible School community.
Well done again to our students and coaching team on their efforts, and on their outstanding results!
BRYNLEY MILLWARD DIRECTOR OF ROWING
On Friday 20 February, the Adelaide Aquatic Centre hosted our annual Year 4 to 12 Swimming Carnival. It was a full day of competition with students from Kilburn, Selwyn, Kennion, and Patteson taking part across a wide range of events, from sprint freestyle through to distance races and relays. The program ran smoothly and it was great to see so many students choosing to compete.
Across the day, students demonstrated genuine effort and commitment in the pool. There were some strong individual
performances and closely contested races, and the relay events brought a lot of energy and House spirit. The support from the stands made a real difference to those in the water.
Points were tallied separately across Junior, Middle, and Senior School for the sub-school shields. After a fiercely competitive day across all year levels, KILBURN claimed the 2026 McGill Shield.
It was pleasing to see strong participation across all year levels, including a good number of students
competing for the first time. The standard of swimming was high throughout, and it was particularly encouraging to see students competing in events outside their comfort zone. The sportsmanship on display congratulating competitors from other Houses and cheering on classmates reflected well on our School community.
Thank you to the many parents and family members who came along to support; having a full crowd makes a genuine difference to the atmosphere and to the students competing.
McGill Shield
1st – KILBURN
2nd – SELWYN
3rd – KENNION
4th – PATTESON
Junior School Shield
KENNION
Middle School Shield
SELWYN
Senior School Shield
KILBURN
Year Level Aggregate Cup Winners
Year 4 - HANNAH RUFFLE
Year 5 - ALEX HE
Year 6 - EMMA
HUMZY-HANCOCK
Year 7 - EMILY WANG
Year 8 - AVA ZIEGELMANN
Year 9 - KAYLA MEDEFINDT
Year10 - CHLOE STURT
Year 11 - ELLA PEARCE
Year 12 - HOLLY ROBINSON
Individual Champions
Junior Champion Swimmer
ALEX HE
Middle Champion Swimmer
KAYLA MEDEFINDT
Senior Champion Swimmer
ELLA PEARCE
Spirit Cup SELWYN
As a school, we recognise the importance of educating students about Australia’s history and fostering an understanding of Indigenous culture, traditions, and deep connection to Country. Through the Arts, students engage with Aboriginal stories, music, and dance, creating opportunities for creative exploration and meaningful expression.
With many Performing Arts events held throughout the year, it is important that audiences acknowledge our School’s place on Kaurna Country. This inspired the creation of an Acknowledgement of Country film that reflects the beauty and connection to the environment of the Adelaide Plains.
Indigenous dance artist Kaine SultanBabij, who previously worked with Bangarra Dance Theatre, choreographed evocative movement sequences inspired by the lifestyle and traditions of Aboriginal people living on the land. Students also devised their own choreography, representing the plains,
hills, coast, and bush that form Kaurna Country. Having their own authentic work included in the project made the creative process especially meaningful and empowering.
Filming took place across carefully selected locations in Adelaide, including the River Torrens, the Arts Precinct, and Grange Beach. Recording the voices of Drama students in both English and Kaurna language ensured the project was deeply personal and something
students could genuinely connect to and take pride in.
The final film is a powerful and moving work that celebrates culture, place, and community. It would not have been possible without the support of ES Videography, Kaine, and the talented dancers featured throughout this Acknowledgement of Country – a piece we will never tire of watching.
KATE BURNETT HEAD OF THE
ARTS
Our community recognised Harmony Day with the release of a special video project, celebrating the richness of culture, language, and connection within Saints Girls.
At the heart of the performance is a strong connection to language and music, with lyrics sung in Chinese. This much-loved song, widely recognised within Chinese culture, is traditionally associated with the Mid-Autumn season, where the full moon symbolises harmony, reflection, reunion, love and nostalgia. Our Chinese students and wider community share a deep connection to this work. We are grateful to Elena Liu for her collaboration in creating the beautiful visual elements that accompany the music.
This project was a rewarding journey for all involved. Through learning language and exploring cultural context, our students approached the work with care and respect, supported by conversations with our International Student Prefect and Ann Li to ensure cultural integrity throughout.
One of the most memorable aspects was the sense of connection it fostered, non-Chinese students embracing the challenge of singing in Chinese, shared
Through learning language and exploring cultural context, our students approached the work with care and respect
moments of laughter and learning between students, and a genuine sense of joy and pride in performance. The project also inspired increased interest in the Choral Program, particularly among our Chinese students, further strengthening our vibrant and inclusive music community.
SARI NOBLE DIRECTOR OF
CHOIRS
SCAN THE QR CODE TO WATCH THE VIDEO
School
was recognised on the state stage, receiving a TASA Award nomination for Best Youth Musical, an outstanding achievement that highlights the strength of talent across our community.
We are especially proud to celebrate Alexandra Nguyen, who was awarded Best Youth Performer for her exceptional portrayal of Jack Kelly. Alex’s commanding stage presence and depth of performance made her a standout in an already remarkable production.
Being one of only a small number of schools recognised, these honours reflect the dedication and collaboration of our entire cast, crew and production team. From dynamic choreography and vocals to the work behind the scenes, Newsies was a true team effort.
We congratulate all involved in bringing this vibrant production to life and invite you to enjoy a highlights video by scanning the QR code below.
The Global Academy Exchange Program has recently broadened its international reach, welcoming two prestigious partner schools in the United Kingdom: Sherborne Girls and St Swithun’s, Winchester.
This term, the School was delighted to host three students from St Swithun’s, Holly, Helena, and Daisy, who quickly became part of the community. Their visit coincided with key events such as Choral Night and Summer Interhouse, offering them a vibrant introduction to our School life. Supported by their host sisters, Diya Bhinder, Grace Davies, and Maria Elovaris, along with their families, the students enjoyed a rich and memorable experience,exploring not only Adelaide but also travelling interstate.
The exchange will continue in June, when Diya, Grace, and Maria travel to the UK for a four-week stay at St Swithun’s. In addition to attending school, they will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in British culture during several free days.
The success of this exchange highlights the strong connections formed between students and families. Special thanks are extended to Diya, Grace, Maria, and their families for their enthusiasm and generosity in making the program such a rewarding experience for all involved.
On 26 December 2025, seven Saints Girls and 16 Saints Boys had a once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in a history tour, exploring places across London and Italy in the span of three weeks, travelling through several Italian cities including Venice, Florence, Prato, Sienna, Lucca, and Milan.
The four day stay in London was filled with various activities, from iconic monuments like the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey, to nighttime walking tours, such as Harry Potter or Jack the Ripper. My personal favourite from London was being able to see the famous musical, ‘Hamilton’, live in theatre.
In Italy, which is known for its rich culture and history, our experienced tour guides took us through the streets, pointing out many different buildings that we’d have otherwise just walked past, and explaining the fascinating stories behind them. Many of the monuments were hundreds of years old, and represented the intricate political and social system of their time. We spent New Year’s Eve in Venice, and watched fireworks over the water. Seeing the reflections of the
fireworks in the canals, surrounded by all the historic buildings was magical, and definitely a moment I’ll never forget.
In Florence, we had free time to explore, in which we shopped, and looked at all the landmarks around the city, with shops like Brandy Melville and Subdued just down the road from our hotel. We had the privilege of being guided by Dr Kevin Murphy, who showed us iconic Italian cathedrals, such as the Duomo, the Medici Chapel and the San Lorenzo Monastery.
But the most memorable part of this trip weren’t the activities or tours, or even the shopping – it was the connections we built between each other, and inter-school. Throughout the trip, our families were back in Australia, and we were relying on each other on our best and worst days. The friendships we formed in such a short period of time were, and still are, incredibly special. The level of support we had for one another, and the trust that came between us over those three weeks was truly unforgettable.
PRAKRITI SHARMA 12SEL
Cindy Pitkin has been part of the St Peter's Girls' School community for over 16 years, contributing to languages education at Saints Girls and well beyond the School. As a Japanese teacher and long-standing Head of Languages, her work has shaped the languages program in lasting ways.
More recently, she has stepped into new territory, taking on Theory of Knowledge and timetabling, and bringing the same curiosity and care to both that she has always brought to her teaching of languages.
Cindy has also led and supported many student experiences in Japan, including study tours and exchanges that give students the chance to use language in real, meaningful ways.
Her professional engagement extends well outside the School. She has presented at state and national conferences, delivered workshops through the School of Languages, and served as President of JLTASA for seven years. Through this, she has helped build Saints Girls' reputation as a school that takes languages seriously.
At Saints, Cindy has been central to developing the Intensive Languages Program and has worked with colleagues to establish clear, inclusive Chinese-language pathways, ensuring students from a range of backgrounds can achieve success in their
language learning. Her work in IB Japanese B brought with it deep expertise and a real generosity toward colleagues: she has mentored teachers, contributed to moderation, and helped build a national professional network connecting IB Japanese teachers across schools.
One of her most significant contributions has been in curriculum and resource development. When IB-aligned materials in Japanese were scarce, Cindy developed a comprehensive suite of resources that is now used by IB Japanese teachers around the world. This includes a bank of listening materials created with native speakers, reading and writing practice, and materials to prepare for the oral exam.
She has further extended her skill set through a co-authoring project with a colleague, culminating this year in the publication of a book, A–Z Japanese, supporting both teachers and students in the ab initio and Japanese B courses.
We are grateful for the expertise, generosity and commitment Cindy brings to Saints, and for the lasting mark she continues to make on languages education at the School and beyond.
KATE FRYER DIRECTOR OF TEACHING AND LEARNING
Canadian journalist Willliam Thorsell once said, “Museums should be places where you raise questions, not just show stuff” and for much of this year, I have had the great pleasure in welcoming a small group of Junior School students into the Museum every Wednesday, in what has informally become known as the Wednesday Lunch Club.
The usually quiet museum comes to life as the girls explore all that the Museum has to offer, whether that be playing dress ups in the old uniforms, playing schools at the wooden desks, leafing through the Year Books to pickout their teachers, mothers, aunties and grandmothers, or generally just immersing themselves in the “Saints Girls of Old”.
I asked the girls why they enjoy coming to the Museum, this is what they told me:
“I like pretending that I am a School girl in the olden days”.
Benedicte
“I like looking at the school books so I can see my mum when she was little”.
Charlotte
“Because I love history and dressing up”
Nicole
It is wonderful to explore the Museum with the girls, and I have been delighted to share some of the history of the School through this interactive experience. They have raised many questions about the School and student life in the past. The girls were surprised by the wooden desks and that Saints Girls used to have boarders when the School was located in North Adelaide.
Given their enthusiasm for dressing up, it came as no surprise that they have taken the most interest in the changes to the School uniform over the years. Of particular fascination are the School berets (previously part of the winter uniform towards the end of last century) and the girls have taken much delight in learning about the white rosette that Prefects wore on their berets (affectionately nicknamed “the marshmallow” by the girls!). They also enjoyed learning about the changes to sports uniforms and the embroidery on the blazer pockets.
St Peter’s Girls’ School has a rich and wonderful history, and I have thoroughly enjoyed encouraging a younger generation of Saints Girls to take an interest the School and its past. The Museum is open every Wednesday during the term and my door is always open for any students and the wider School Community who would like to learn more about the history of Saints Girls (or maybe to just try on a beret!).
SIMONE MCAULIFFE SCHOOL ARCHIVIST
I am honoured to have been elected as the new St Peter’s Girls' Old Scholars’ Council President at the recent AGM. I would like to thank Tori Moore (Patteson 2009) for stepping back into the President’s role for the remainder of last year.
I look forward to working with the Council and our community to further strengthen our Association and provide opportunities for our members to connect with one another and with the School.
A major initiative undertaken in 2025 was the Old Scholars’ Survey, which has provided us with invaluable insights. These will help us continue to create meaningful engagement and offer support to our members at all stages of life. As a result, we are introducing new events to the calendar, including the ‘Touch of Blue’ event for our youngest Old Scholars and the 'Royal Blue Afternoon Tea' for those who left the School 50 or more years ago.
mentoring activities.
Many Old Scholars were delighted to learn that the magnificent north-west building has officially been named the Emily Centre, in honour of our primary founder, Sister Emily Ayckbown.
planned, as well as our traditional Old Scholars’ Reunion Dinner and St Peterstide celebrations on Friday 26 June. I look forward to seeing you there.
If you would like to learn more about the Old Scholars’ Association or attend our events, please contact Susie Wills at swills@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au.
The year began with the Academic Assembly celebrating the Class of 2025’s achievements. Current PhD candidate and Old Scholar Bethany Cross (Patteson 2018) shared her insights and advice with students about life and experiences beyond school.
Old Scholars continue to return to the School to speak with students about
We also continue to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Old Scholars in sport, music, and other fields.
I would like to thank our Principal, Cherylyn Skewes, and the members of the Old Scholars’ Council for their ongoing commitment to the Association.
We look forward to the remainder of the year, with new events and initiatives
TATUM GOULD (NÉE HAWLEY, SELWYN 2004)
OLD SCHOLARS’ ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT
12.30pm, Wednesday 29 July 2026
The annual Generations Breakfast is a highlight of the Old Scholars’ calendar. In March more than 30 Old Scholar families joined their daughters, granddaughters and nieces for breakfast and a special celebration of the strong generational ties within our School community.
We were delighted to welcome guest speaker Fiona Besir (nee Zogopoulos, Kilburn 2002), a fourth generation Saints Girl, who reflected on her family’s legacy within Saints Girls and the influence it has had on her decision to send her daughter to the School. Beginning with her Great Grandmother, Bessie Hill (nee Ide, 1913) after whom the Bessie Hill Dux of SACE and IB medals are named in honour of her academic achievements, it was wonderful to celebrate the four generations of the Hill, Zogopoulos, Besir and Hatzis families, as well as many other third and second-generation families. Bessie Hill’s daughter Joan Lindpere also joined us for breakfast representing a fifth generation of the family.
We look forward to welcoming our generational families at next year’s breakfast.
To our Members who left School 50 or more years ago, you are warmly invited to the Royal Blue Afternoon Tea Friday 30 October, 2pm Jeffreys Linn Arts Centre
Invitations will be sent closer to the date
date
The wonderful community that our girls experience throughout their time at Saints Girls continues long after they graduate, through their involvement with the St Peter’s Girls’ Old Scholars’ Association.
For generations, Saints Girls have walked through the gates not only to learn but to grow into confident, compassionate and courageous women, and our Old Scholars’ Association honours that journey by keeping the spirit of the School alive well beyond graduation.
More than an alumni group, the St Peter’s Girls’ Old Scholars’ Association is a proud and passionate network of women united by shared values, rich traditions, and a deep sense of belonging and pride. It represents the strength, success and sisterhood that are born within St Peter’s Girls’ School and carried across a lifetime.
The Association honours the strong history of our School and works to champion, connect and celebrate generations of Saints Girls at every stage of their journey, by providing opportunities for mentorship, professional growth, social engagement, and meaningful connection.
The unique connections many of our Old Scholars maintain with the School highlight the strength of a Saints Girls’ education, not only preparing students for the future, but surrounding them with a network of empowered women who remain invested in their growth.
Old Scholars return to the School as guest speakers, tutors, mentors and coaches, providing inspiration and support to current students. They are living proof of the impact a Saints Girls' education can have, and we are immensely proud of all they achieve.
Through reunions, networking, mentoring, and initiatives like the Old
Scholar’s Scholarship, the Association empowers Old Scholars to stay involved, give back, and inspire the next generation.
Local and interstate reunions are celebrated annually, providing members with the opportunity to celebrate their milestone reunions and what it is to be a Saints Girl.
Sporting events continue to grow with members playing in the Lynne Spry Water Polo Cup and Georgia Beaton Netball Cup each year. There is great excitement that the Georgia Beaton Cup will be played in the magnificent Emily Centre for the first time this year .
Many Old Scholars have maintained a generational link with the School and a highlight every year is the wonderful occasion when Old Scholars join their daughters, granddaughters and nieces, who are currently attending the School, at the Generations Breakfast. It is a wonderful occasion to celebrate our history and the next generation of Saints Girls.
As a third generation Saints Girl myself, I know only too well how special it is to share the Saints Girls' legacy with my family who walked through the gates of both Kermode Street and Stonyfell. I don’t remember a time when I didn’t think of myself as a Saints Girl and this has always given me so much pride. It is still my ‘Saints Girls’ that are there for the most significant moments of my life, even after all these years, and it is my wish that every Saints Girl has the same experiences long after they have left the School gates, wherever life may take them.
If you would like to learn more about the Old Scholars’ Association please contact me at swills@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au
SUSIE WILLS (PATTESON 1991)
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT OFFICER –OLD SCHOLARS
Keep up to date with Old Scholar news and success stories across our social media platforms:
You can stay connected with us on Facebook: facebook.com/SaintsGirlsOldScholars
You can also find us on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/school/3769474
And we love to post Old Scholar updates on our School’s Instagram account: @stpetersgirlsschool
If you have any Old Scholar news to share, please contact Susie Wills via swills@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au
The year began with the annual Academic Assembly where the 2025 Merit recipients were acknowledged for their outstanding academic achievements. Old Scholar, Bethany Cross (Patteson 2018), spoke to the award recipients.
Bethany completed a Bachelor of Science, and is currently completing a PhD at Adelaide University and she shared valuable insights with the girls about life post school and navigating
their chosen career paths. A major theme of her speech was studies and careers students may choose to pursue may not be the path they end up on, decisions made with the information they have at the time may change, and that is all part of the journey after leaving Saints Girls.
It is always wonderful when there are opportunities for Old Scholars to return to the School and contribute their experience and knowledge with the current students. We were privileged to welcome two Old Scholars to speak at the International Women’s Day Assembly ‘Balancing the Scales’.
Sarah Goulding (Selwyn 1988), a global leader in gender equality, disability rights and inclusive development, and Genevieve Lewis (Kennion 2003), Past Board Member of the Zahra Foundation,
spoke to the girls about the realworld challenges connected to gender inequality and the important work being done to create safer, more equitable communities for all women.
Emma Kavanagh (Kilburn 2014) took time away from her second season of ‘Broadway off Broadway’ at the Adelaide Fringe, to treat the girls and guests at Choral Night with magnificent performances of ‘I have Confidence’ from the Sound of Music and ‘Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again’ from the Phantom of the Opera. Although Patteson took the win over Emma’s beloved Kilburn, it was truly magical to have her perform.
In Term 1, Claire Newland (née Hale, Patteson 2014) spoke to the Year 9 girls at the Leadership Assembly.
Claire works in management and accounting and is a member of the Steering Committee of the Gender Equity Network at Grant Thornton, and is currently the State President of the National Council of Women of South Australia.
Claire shared her learned experience of leadership and giving back to the community through her leadership
skills. Some of the messages she conveyed were…
“Leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room, it’s about being brave enough to step into spaces where women haven’t always been welcomed and representing those who may not be able to participate”.
“Leadership doesn’t start with a title, it
starts when you decide to help”.
“Leadership isn’t about perfection, it’s about showing up, trying, learning and giving back”.
Claire inspired the Year 9 students with her advice and stories of other female leaders she admires.
Rowing Season Opening Picnic
Georgina Belder (Selwyn 2013), Saints Girls' first-ever Rowing Captain, attended the annual Friends of Rowing 2025/26 Season Opening Picnic in October, and we were delighted that she christened the School’s newest boat, Courage II. It is incredible to think that when Georgina started rowing for Saints in 2010, there were four members of the rowing team, using rented and borrowed equipment, and this year there are 80 students in the rowing program, enjoying our 13th and newest boat!
Open to all Alumni years and Class Reunions of 1956, 1966, 1976, 1986, 1996, 2006, 2011 and 2016.
Annual Reunion Dinner Friday 26 June 2026 at 7pm The Adelaide Pavilion | Veale Gardens Corner of South Terrace and Peacock Road, Adelaide
$85 per person. Includes welcome drinks, canapés and a two-course meal. Drinks are available at the bar.
RSVP Friday 19 June 2026 www.trybooking.com/DKTAT or telephone 8334 2239
School Tour: Meet at Jeffreys Linn Arts Centre Foyer at 10.30am St Peterstide Eucharist: Eucharist in the School Chapel at 11.45 am
Please direct further enquiries to the Community Relations Office via (08) 8334 2239 or swills@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au
Thank you to the members of our Old Scholar’s community and current parents who volunteered and helped make the Head of the River such a success this year.
As one of four host Schools for the Head of the River this year, we were required to carry out numerous tasks on the day, and we couldn’t have done it without the invaluable help of our volunteers. It shows that when we all come together we can achieve great things!
Lakara Stallan (Kilburn 2021) claimed her first national gold medal, winning the Open Women’s Australian National Championship 200m at the Australian Athletics Championships in Sydney.
Lakara was also selected for the Women’s 4 X 100 Relay Squad to compete in the 2026 Relay World Championships in Gaborone, Botswana. Congratulations Lakara!
Congratulations to Old Scholar and Former Staff member, Kay Collas (née Maurice, Patteson 1955) on receiving a Medal of the Order of Australia in the Australia Day Honours this year. Kay was awarded the OAM in recognition of her many years of wonderful service to the Anglican Church and her commitment to volunteering in classrooms for more than 20 years.
On Tuesday 3 March we welcomed Old Scholars and Year Leaders to the Old Scholars’ Year Leaders Event and Annual General Meeting in the Jeffreys Linn Arts Centre.
It is always wonderful to see our members at the AGM and their interest in the ongoing strength of the Old Scholar’s Council and Association.
Tori Moore (Patteson 2009) delivered the President’s Report, and we would like to sincerely thank Tori for undertaking the role of President. We are very pleased to announce that Tori will stay on the Council as Vice President.
Our Principal Cherylyn Skewes updated guests on School activities and the outstanding IB and SACE results the Class of 2025 achieved. An exciting highlight was the update on the magnificent Emily Centre which is now operational for our students.
Susie Wills (Patteson 1991) reported on the Old Scholars’ Association's activities and events over the past year and the planned initiatives moving forward.
The official election of Office Bearers and Councillors took place, and we are
excited to announce that Tatum Gould (née Hawley, Selwyn 2004) was elected as our new President and Simone McAuliffe (née Hall, Selwyn 1990) will continue as Secretary. The Council is now represented by a great cross section of new Old Scholars and those who have contributed for many years and they are looking forward to working together to continue growing our Association.
PRESIDENT
Tatum Gould (née Hawley, Selwyn 2004) COMMITTEE
Tori Moore (Patteson 2009) – Vice President
Simone McAuliffe (née Hall, Selwyn 1990) - Secretary
Belinda Mears - Treasurer
MEMBERS
Judith Bruce (née Yeoman, Patteson 1962)
Jacqui Seppelt (née Roll, Kilburn 1964)
Helen Cant (née Geue, Selwyn 1965)
Lynda Henderson (née Gould, Kilburn 1967)
Anne Daniell (née Crisp, Kennion 1969)
Hannah Butenko (Kilburn 2011)
Danielle Thomas (née Schultz, Selwyn 2011)
Lara Wakeham (Patteson 2021)
Sophie Ricciuto (Kennion 2024)
Angelina Hii (Selwyn 2024)
Mollie Kennett (Patteson 2025)
All regular OSA meetings will be held in the Chiverton Boardroom at 5.45pm on Tuesday 1 September and Tuesday 10 November
If you are interested in joining the Old Scholars’ Association Council or require further information, please contact Susie Wills via swills@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au or 8334 2239.
On April 22, more than 50 guests attended the Friends of Saints Girls’ Chapel Service and Light Lunch. A mixture of Old Scholars, Past Board Members, Former Staff and Former Parents enjoyed joining the girls for the Chapel Service, and for many of them it was an opportunity to reminisce about their times attending Chapel at Saints Girls.
The theme for this year’s Friends of Saints Girls’ events is 'Women in Business', and we were pleased to welcome Associate Professor Rachel Roberts-Thomson (Patteson 1994). Introduced by our Community Service Prefect, Madeleine Oborn, Rachel spoke about her outstanding career in medicine and oncology and her experience now as a business owner, running her own private practice, Cancer Care Adelaide.
The Chapel Service was followed by an enjoyable light lunch on the Chapel Path where guests enjoyed catching up with each other and the news of the School.
On 29 October more than 40 Friends of Saints Girls gathered for the annual morning tea, and under beautiful blue skies, guests enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with each other and the School. The theme for Friends of Saints Girls’ events in 2025 was 'Community Service', and guest speaker Lauren Zwaans (Patteson 2004) shared her commitment to giving back to the community and causes that she is passionate about. Lauren currently sits on the Boards of the Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation and St Peter’s Girls’ School. Lauren’s speech about the importance of giving back was inspiring and we appreciated her contribution to the morning tea.
Friends of Saints Girls is a small group of volunteers that work together to enhance the future of the School, by acknowledging the achievements of the past.
If you would like to know more about the Friends of Saints Girls or to attend events, please email Susie at swills@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au.
On March 28, Melbourne based Old Scholars met at the Palace Hotel in Camberwell for a lovely afternoon reunion. Quite a few arrived with old blazers, School hats and photos which brought back many memories and amusing stories of school days.
Our Principal Cherylyn Skewes attended the reunion and the Old Scholars loved hearing the news and achievements of Saints Girls.
Thank you to Angie Seekamp (Kilburn 1996) for her assistance in arranging the reunion. We are looking forward to next year’s event and if you would like to attend please contact Susie at swills@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au
Perth Old Scholars gathered for their annual Christmas lunch in December. Belinda Mears
our Director of Marketing, Communications and advancement joined the ladies for an enjoyable afternoon. Thank you to Fiona Poole (nee Newton, Kilburn 1991) for arranging the Perth reunions. If you are in Perth and would like to join future reunions, please contact Susie at swills@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au
In November around 30 Old Scholars from the Class of 1985 gathered at The Maid Hotel to celebrate their 40 year reunion. Quite a few guests flew in from interstate for the reunion and Roxanne Harbour (née Stacey, 1985), Head Prefect of '85 travelled from London to join the celebrations.
Many thanks to Cathie Miller (née George, 1985) and Sally Goodwin (née Walker, 1985) for organising a great reunion for the Class of ‘85.
Join us for the annual Georgia Beaton Netball Cup and cheer on the Old Scholars as they compete against current students. For the first time the match will be played in the new gym in the Emily Centre, so it’s a great opportunity to experience the new Centre!
Saturday 29 August, 8.30am for a 9am start
Followed by a light breakfast
If you would like to join us please RSVP via www.trybooking.com/DLPPS
Saturday 20 June at 12.30pm
The Oaks Hotel 119 Military Road, Neutral Bay
A la carte menu – pay as you go RSVP www.trybooking.com/DKVKT
Saturday 27 June at 12pm
Les Bistronomes, 18 Blamey Place Campbell
A la carte menu – pay as you go RSVP www.trybooking.com/DKVLM
In January we were delighted to welcome our newest Old Scholars, the classes of 2024 and 2025 to the ‘Touch of Blue’ event on the Middle School Deck. It was a wonderful night which gave the girls the opportunity to catch up with each other and with their former teachers who were keen to hear about their adventures since graduating. We will hold this event every year to welcome our new members and encourage them to stay connected with the Old Scholars’ community. We look forward to seeing the class of 2026 next year!
A. Congratulations to Sasha Morris (née McLean, Kennion 2006) and her husband Robert on the arrival of their second child Daphne Mae Morris, born 25 June 2025. A wonderful little sister to Leo who is currently attending St Peter's Girls' ELC.
B. Congratulations to Olivia May (Kennion 2015) and Ollie Wines on the arrival of their baby boy Leo in November.
Chelsea Hargreaves (Selwyn 2013), married Josh Caveney in November at Lake Breeze Wines, Langhorne Creek. Chelsea was supported on her happy day by three Old Scholar bridesmaids, Kate Richards (Patteson 2013), Nicolla Russo (Kennion 2013) and Elise Day (Selwyn 2013).
Natasha Jaeschke (nee Keller, Kennion 1997)
Margaret Haselgrove (Selwyn, 1968)
Judy Heuzenroeder (nee Horsnell, Selwyn 1959)
Maxine Wallace (nee Chandler, Patteson 1954)
Gay Wetherall (nee Parsons, Patteson 1955)
Judith Spurling (nee Hoey, Selwyn 1954)
Dr Jane Pitman – Board of Governors 1986 - 1994
Marjorie Quin (Patteson 1951)
Vale Pederson (nee Haselgrove, Selwyn 1963) – Sister
Jane Gregory, (nee Haselgrove, Selwyn 1965) – Sister
Jean Haselgrove, deceased (nee Frost, Selwyn 1930) – Daughter
Mary Gibberd (nee Horsnell, Selwyn 1961) - Sister
Catherine (Cathie) Wilson (nee Horsnell, Selwyn 1966) - Sister
Henrietta (Yetty) Mitford Burgess (nee Horsnell, Selwyn 1968) - Sister
Mary Frost, deceased (Selwyn 1923) - Niece
Old Scholar announcements will only be printed with the permission of family members.
