Welcome from the Principal, Ms Annette Rome – 15 February 2019

The year has started very well for us and particularly heartening is the recognition of both St Margaret’s and Berwick Grammar as the top independent schools in the Berwick and Pakenham area according to VCE results. Berwick Grammar was in the top 14% of all schools and St Margaret’s in the top 10% of schools. VCE results are, however, only a small part of the story. The graduands of 2018 have left us as well-rounded and capable young people with a thirst for life and what it offers. Our 2018 graduating students have all managed to secure a tertiary course or occupation with all eligible students receiving an offer and the vast majority of those receiving a first or second preference. We are proud of them and look forward to welcoming them back during future years.

The community has welcomed the new Head of Junior School, Ms Louise Sayar, and I look forward to seeing the Junior School parents at the ‘Meet the New Head of Junior School’ session on February 21 at 7pm in the Lecture Theatre. I know Mrs Sayar has already demonstrated her warmth, commitment and humour to our community and that she is absolutely loving coming to our school.

The revised wellbeing and academic structures in Senior Schools have already garnered reflections such as: ‘this is helping with cross aged friendships’, ‘challenging initially but really helps House spirit’, ‘everyone is so friendly’, ‘I like the small mentor groups’, ‘I’ve made so many new friends’, ‘I love meeting the girls and seeing their journeys and experiences through a new perspective’.  I have no doubt that the students will enjoy and benefit from the wellbeing and academic perspectives.

On a different note, the start of the year has brought much hot weather. A significant number of students are on camp at the start of the year and I wanted to reassure all families that we watch weather warnings very closely. We work with experienced providers such as Outdoor Education Group (OEG) whose risk management is exemplary. Please note weather alerts are also a standard item on all relevant agendas.

I look forward to seeing as many parents as possible at the Parents’ Cocktail Evening on Friday 22 February at 6.30pm in The Pavilion at St Margaret’s.

I would like to wish everyone a great year.

Ms Annette Rome FACE FACEL
Principal