As we bid farewell to Term 1, it is with pride and gratitude that we reflect on our positive start to 2024. Over these past months, our focus has been clear: building connections, nurturing high expectations and fostering positive routines. Since our last newsletter, we have had the launch of the Gippsland Grammar Centenary year, which included the book launch being held at our St Anne’s campus. We have also had our parent/teacher interviews and NAPLAN for Years 3 and 5. In each classroom, teachers and students have been embedding their daily learning routines and aiming high.

Music enrichment
Early this term, St. Anne's School enjoyed a musical treat, with performances from The Percy Code Band and our own talented senior students. They provided a lovely showcase for our Years 2 to 6 students, offering a peek into the world of music that was both enjoyable and inspiring, especially for those in our Year 4 training band.

The day started with a lovely rendition of ‘Pure Imagination’ from Wonka, performed by our senior students and The Percy Code Band. It was a special moment to see our past Year 4 band members, who've grown so much musically over the years, perform with such confidence. Our current Year 4 training band students also got to play alongside the older students, a great learning opportunity that shows the value of peer guidance in music. The day wrapped up with these young musicians working with the St Anne’s Concert Band, an excellent step forward in their musical journey. The Moana medley was another highlight, bringing everyone in the school together in a shared musical moment. It's always beautiful to see music drawing our community closer.

The Strings workshop held on Thursday March 7, at our Garnsey campus was a harmonious highlight of the week. Students learning string instruments from across our three campuses came together collaboratively. Students immersed themselves in workshops throughout the day, honing their skills and deepening their understanding of their instruments. The evening's soiree beautifully showcased the day's efforts and enthusiasm. This event featured performances by all participants, displaying our students' impressive progress.

A big thanks to Katrina Chilcott, Brad Cruickshank, Laura Evans, Katie Germaine and all the music teachers and students involved in making today's event a success. It was a day that reminded us of the important role music plays at St Anne's, not just in developing skills but in fostering a sense of unity and creativity.

Swimming success
Over the past few weeks, we have had our St Anne’s swimming team compete in the Sale & District, Wellington and the Regional Swimming Carnivals. Firstly, congratulations to all students who represented Gippsland Grammar in these events. I am excited to share the splashing success of our 25 students representing Gippsland Grammar at the recent SSV Regional Swimming Carnival. Our poolside heroes have made waves, showcasing incredible talent, dedication and teamwork.

Two of our relay teams punched their tickets to the State Swimming Championships in Melbourne! A big cheer for the 9/10-year-old boys and 11-year-old boys teams. Furthermore, five out of our eight relay teams finished in the top three, a testament to our swimmers' hard work. Tom Williamson made waves with his performance in the 50m Backstroke for 11-year-olds. Henry Arnup soared through the 50m Butterfly and Backstroke for 9/10-year-olds, clinching victory in both events. We offer all the support and encouragement they deserve as they prepare to represent Gippsland Grammar at State level. Go, team!

Finally, a reminder that Term 1 finishes at 2.15 pm on Thursday March 28. We start back at school on Monday April 15. I hope all families have an enjoyable two-week break, and I look forward to seeing everyone at the start of Term 2. Please see below for more information about our upcoming key events.

Key Events
Monday March 25: Easter Service at St Paul’s Cathedral
Thursday March 28: Citizen of the Term
Monday April 15: start of Term 2
Wednesday April 24: House Cross Country at Garnsey Campus