As Term 1 concludes, I can’t help but reflect on what a joy it is to come to Saints Girls each day; the incredible spirit and energy that are defining features of the student body at our School. It has been a term marked by outstanding student participation in co-curricular activities, and students taking every opportunity to support and cheer on their peers at so many events. We were proud to see large numbers of our students come along as supporters, especially to our Intercol matches, no doubt helping Saints Girls retain the Summer Intercol – The Belinda Rosser/Jan MacDonald Summer Trophy.
Term 1 is rich with significant events on the School calendar. The Swimming Carnival in Week 4 was a stand-out, held over two days with 255 races across Years 4 to 12. Once again, it was heartwarming to see our students wanting to take an active role in the carnivals. Unlike many co-educational schools locally and nationally where school swimming carnivals are no longer held as girls, especially in the upper primary and lower secondary years, will not be seen publicly in bathers, our students at every age level are eager to participate in either final races and/or House events. If the students were not in the water, they were poolside showing their support with vibrant signs and cheers for their friends and teammates.
In Week 5, we held the Girls in Tech Expo for the seventh consecutive year, with 120 Saints Girls from Years 5 and 6 participating and hosting 130 girls from seven visiting primary schools. This event provided an opportunity to explore technology in a safe, all-girls learning environment. Our students’ enthusiasm and support continue to inspire girls to engage with technology, nurturing creativity and innovation through fun, interactive, and hands-on experiences.
Week 7 saw us take part in the highly anticipated Head of the River competition at West Lakes, where 69 of our talented girls competed, with over 150 of their peers and community members cheering them on from the bank despite the soaring temperatures. On completing their races, our crews rowed into the bank, quickly climbing from their boats so they could be bankside to cheer on their fellow crews. This year we achieved our highest-ever medal count at the Head of the River and claimed the highest medal tally by any school in the Schoolgirl competition at the 2025 event. What a remarkable achievement for our rowers and a credit to the coaches, parents and Friends of Rowing.
In Week 8, we gathered for the magnificent Choral Night, with a record number of 1100 members of our community in attendance. This long-standing Saints Girls’ tradition, now in its 81st year, showcased the extraordinary talents of our Years 7 to 12 students. Choral Night is a true celebration of music, collaboration and team spirit within the Houses but what always stands out for me at this event is the unwavering support and deafening cheers from students, not just for their own House but also for their friends and peers in competing Houses.
Last week, the community came together for the Ponytail Project, where 28 girls from the Middle and Senior Schools donated 20cm of their hair to raise funds for the Cancer Council. This is a meaningful way to support a worthy cause and reflects the kindness and generosity of our students. This year, our students raised $19,000.00.
Term 1 has been nothing short of exhilarating, filled with memorable moments that showcase the values that make Saints Girls so unique. I hope everyone enjoys a well-deserved break. I look forward to welcoming you back, refreshed and ready, for Term 2.
Cherylyn Skewes
Principal