Inspired by Dame Jacinda Ardern
Recently, the Year 6 students had the privilege of meeting Dame Jacinda Ardern, an influential global leader and former Prime Minister of New Zealand. In preparation for her presentation, the Year 6 students researched her life, political career, and the qualities that shaped her leadership journey. Students explored how Dame Jacinda Ardern became the youngest female Prime Minister in New Zealand’s history and examined the significant impact she has had both nationally and internationally.
Throughout the research process, the Year 6 students discovered that Dame Jacinda Ardern is widely admired for her compassion, integrity, and authentic approach to leadership. Her ability to lead with empathy, particularly during challenging times, inspired many students to reflect on the importance of kindness, resilience, and courage in positions of responsibility.
Jane Angove, Sarah Anderson and Rebecca Riley
Year 6 Teachers
Year 3 Students Discover the Magic of Physics
As part of our Unit of Inquiry into How the World Works, the Year 3 girls had the opportunity to be part of an exciting Physics lesson with Head of Science, Craig Byrne. Throughout the session the girls were challenged to apply their scientific thinking to many questions and were encouraged to explain their predictions with reasoning. They watched with wonder at water bending, hair standing on end and pie tins flying through the air. They learned about sound waves, gravity, static electricity, and positive and negative charges.
We love when our Junior School students learn hand-in-hand with our Senior School and are grateful to Craig Byrne and Melissa Lee for making it happen. We are now excited to be extending our Science learning ever further in laboratory sessions with our Scientist-in-Residence, Dr Timna Garnett.
Monique McLeay and Julie Orchard
Year 3 Teachers
Junior School Information Session – Screen Use, Digital Wellbeing & Learning
Head of Junior School, Marika Taylor, warmly invites Junior School families to attend an upcoming Information Session exploring Screen Use, Digital Wellbeing and Learning.
The session will provide families with insights into current research surrounding children’s technology use, practical strategies for supporting healthy digital habits at home, and an overview of how iPads are used to support learning within the Junior School classroom.
Wednesday 10 June
5.30 – 6.30pm
Jeffreys Linn Arts Centre
St Peter’s Girls’ School
We are delighted to welcome Dr Walter Barbieri, Associate Professor and Academic Lead at the School of Education at Adelaide University, as our guest presenter for the evening. Drawing on current research, Dr Barbieri will explore the opportunities and challenges associated with technology use for Primary-aged children, including the impact of iPads on learning, wellbeing and development. The session will also address common misconceptions surrounding screen use and provide practical routines and strategies families may wish to consider at home.
Families are encouraged to attend and participate in the discussion, with opportunities for questions throughout the evening.
Meet Dr Walter Barbieri
Dr Walter Barbieri is an Associate Professor and Academic Lead at the School of Education at Adelaide University, where he works to develop future school teachers. Walter’s research focuses on the impact and implementation of educational technologies, including screen use, digital wellbeing and technology-informed teaching. His research outputs are publicly available here and include a book focused on balancing the risks and opportunities associated with educational technologies.
Prior to his tertiary career, Walter was a school teacher and school leader for close to 20 years across three countries. He continues to work in close and ongoing partnership with schools, teachers, students and broader communities.
Middle & Senior School Curriculum Information Evening
You are warmly invited to attend the St Peter’s Girls’ Middle and Senior School Curriculum Information Evening, designed to support our Junior School families in understanding the curriculum in the Middle and Senior School.
Wednesday 17 June
5.30pm – 6.30pm
The Emily Centre
St Peter’s Girls’ School
At this session, you will hear from Emma Smerdon, Head of Middle School, and our Director of Teaching and Learning, Kate Fryer, who will provide an overview of Middle and Senior School curriculum pathways, including core subjects, elective opportunities, lesson structures, subject rotations, learning expectations, academic support, and an introduction to the IB and SACE pathways.
The evening will provide you with valuable insight into the academic journey ahead for your daughter, helping you feel informed, supported and confident. We hope the session will offer a deeper understanding of the rich and engaging learning opportunities available from Year 7 onwards.
Term 2 Key Dates
| Junior School Information Session | Wednesday 10 June |
| Middle & Senior School Curriculum Information Evening | Wednesday 17 June |
| Year 6 Exhibition | Wednesday, 24 June |