CO -CURRICULAR HANDBOOK 2020
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1 CO-CURRICULAR HANDBOOK 2020
Transcript of CO -CURRICULAR HANDBOOK 2020
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C O - C U R R I C U L A R H A N D B O O K 2 0 2 0
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Table of Contents Table of Contents ...................................................................................................................................................... 2
Overview of the Co-curricular Program .................................................................................................................... 3
Sport .......................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Co-curricular Music ................................................................................................................................................ 12
Co-curricular Drama ............................................................................................................................................... 18
Debating .................................................................................................................................................................. 22
Service Based Activities.......................................................................................................................................... 24
Interest Based Activities.......................................................................................................................................... 30
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Overview of the Co-curricular Program There are many opportunities within the School for girls to become actively involved in the Co-curricular Program and all students are encouraged to participate. Activities may be curriculum related and/or interest based. Involvement in the Co-curriculum Program helps to nurture the individual and provides opportunities for students to fully realise their potential and develop and enhance essential life skills.
Grammar girls are encouraged to extend and explore their interests, passion and knowledge through their choice of co-curricular activities and the opportunity to be involved in a variety of pursuits, including sport, music, service, debating, public speaking and performing arts. Designed to complement and balance the curriculum, these programs encourage participation, teamwork, self-confidence and creativity. The leadership roles assumed by students in many of these activities contribute to academic success and significant personal development.
The following pages briefly outline some of the co-curricular interest groups and club activities that are on offer at the School. If you would like to know more about a particular activity, please contact any of the coordinators listed on these pages. Once you commit to an activity, we ask that you be prepared to honour this commitment to ensure the viability of the group.
More information regarding the School’s co-curricular interest groups, clubs and activities, and how students can express interest in such activities is available on the Co-curriculam Page on Minerva.
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Sport Director of Sport: Ms Jo Duffy
The School has a long tradition of valuing physical activity in the lives of students because of its ability to teach honour, physical skills, discipline, self-esteem, humility, the team concept and healthy lifestyle. Currently, the School’s Sports Program offers 18 competitive and several non-competitive sporting activities. Girls Grammar is a founding member of the Queensland Girls Secondary Schools Sporting Association (QGSSSA) competition, and participates in a range of Brisbane Club associations as well as providing a comprehensive Interhouse program.
Coordinators:
Artistic Gymnastics: Ms Kate Kregenbrink
Athletics: Mrs Trish Greenland
Badminton: Mrs Jo Nisbett
Basketball: Ms Amy Penberthy
Cricket: Mr Tony Cupitt
Cross Country: Mrs Kate McCarthy
Fencing: Mr William Bishop
Football: Ms Raechelle Finch
Hockey: Mr Elliot McGarry
Netball: Ms Cathy Rees
Rhythmic Gymnastics: Mrs Anna O’Gorman
Rowing: Mr Darcy Wruck
Rock Climbing: Mr Barry Greatorix
Softball: Miss Kayley McCorley
Swimming: Ms Brittany Nunan
Tennis: Ms Jane Martel
Touch: Mrs Jo Nisbett
Volleyball: Miss Kayley McCorley
Water Polo: Ms Annabelle White
General Fitness Opportunities:
Run Fit: Mr Tim Franklin
Swimming Training: Miss Brittany Nunan
Strength and Conditioning: Mr Liam Mulligan
Artistic Gymnastics Coordinator: Ms Kate Kregenbrink, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 4 and Term 1
Competition: QGSSSA Competition held last week of Term 1
Training: Two sessions per week throughout Term 4 and Term 1
Training venue: Bowen Hills YMCA, 95 Abbotsford Road, Bowen Hills
Athletics Coordinator: Mrs Trish Greenland, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 3 and Term 4
Competition: QGSSSA Competition held in October, weekly meets throughout Term 3
Training: Two sessions per week commencing in Term 2
Training venue: UQ Sport Athletics Centre, Building 25, The University of Queensland, Union Road, St Lucia
Badminton Coordinator: Mrs Jo Nisbett, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 3 and Term 4
Competition: QGSSSA Competition held in October/November over two Saturdays
Training: Two sessions per week commencing in Term 3
Training venue: BGGS, McCrae Grassie Sports Centre
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Basketball Coordinator: Ms Amy Penberthy, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 1 and Term 2
Competition: QGSSSA Weekly Fixtures on Friday afternoons (mid Term 1 to mid Term 2)
Training: Two sessions per week, commencing Term 1
Training venue: BGGS Courts
Cricket Coordinator: Mr Tony Cupitt, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 4 and Term 1
Competition: QGSSSA Weekly Fixtures on Wednesday afternoons throughout Term 1
Training: One session per week commencing Term 4
Training venue: Rangakarra Recreational and Environmental Centre (Rangakarra), on occasion at Gold Crest Cricket Club, Finsbury Park, Newmarket
Cross Country Coordinator: Mrs Kate McCarthy, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 1 and Term 2
Competition: QGSSSA Competition held in May, meets on various afternoons in lead up to QGSSSA competition
Training: Two sessions per week commencing Term 1, various sessions offered
Training venue: Meet at BGGS, Victoria Park
Fencing Coordinator: Mr William Bishop, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 1 and Term 2
Competition: Brisbane School Team Fixtures on Saturday mornings during Term 2
Training: One or two sessions per week commencing Term 1
Training venue: BGGS Pool Undercroft
Football Coordinator: Mrs Raechelle Finch, [email protected]
Time of year: Terms 1 and 2 (training commences Term 4)
Competition: QGSSSA weekly fixtures on Friday afternoons throughout Term 1 and Term 2
Training: One session per week throughout Term 1 and Term 2
Training venue: Rangakarra
Hockey Coordinator: Mr Elliot McGarry, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 1 and Term 3
Competition: QGSSSA Weekly Fixtures on Saturday mornings throughout Term 3
Training: One session per week commencing Term 2
Training venue: Rangakarra/AstroTurf venues
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Netball Coordinator: Ms Cathy Rees, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 2 and Term 3 (trials held at end of Term 1)
Competition: QGSSSA weekly fixtures on Saturday mornings throughout Term 3
Training: One session per week, commencing Term 2
Training venue: Downey Park Netball Association Courts, Northey Street, Windsor
Rhythmic Gymnastics Coordinator: Ms Anna O’Gorman, ao’[email protected]
Time of year: Term 2 and Term 3
Competition: QGSSSA Competition held in August
Training: Two sessions per week, commencing Term 2 (holiday training in July holidays)
Training venue: BGGS, McCrae Grassie Sports Centre
Rock Climbing Coordinator: Mr Barry Greatorix, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 1 to Term 4
Sessions: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons
Venue: BGGS, McCrae Grassie Sports Centre
Rowing Coordinator: Mr Darcy Wruck, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 2 and Term 3
Competition: Brisbane Schoolgirls’ Rowing Association Regattas each Saturday throughout Term 3, culminating in Head of the River in August
Training: Three to four sessions each week, training camp opportunity in mid‐year school holidays
Training venue: Brisbane Grammar School Rowing Shed, West End
Run Fit Coordinator: Mr Tim Franklin, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 1 to Term 4
Training: Various sessions offered
Training Venue: BGGS, Victoria Park
Softball Coordinator: Miss Kayley McCorley, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 1 (Senior: Years 10 to 12) and Term 3 and Term 4 (Junior: Years 7 to 9) Competition. QGSSSA Weekly Fixtures on Saturday mornings (Seniors) and various weekday afternoons (Juniors)
Training: One session per week
Training venue: Brisbane Grammar School, No. 2 Oval
Strength and Conditioning Coordinator: Mr Liam Mulligan, [email protected]
Time of Year: Term 1 to Term 4
Training: Various sessions offered
Training Venue: BGGS Green Floor and Weights Room
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Swimming Coordinator: Miss Brittany Nunan, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 4 and Term 1
Competition: QGSSSA Competition held in March with lead-up meets held on Friday afternoons throughout Term 1
Training: Two sessions per week, commencing Term 4. Various sessions offered, training holiday camp at Runaway Bay in January school holidays
Training venue: Centenary Pool and BGGS Pool
Swimming Training For Fitness Coordinator: Miss Brittany Nunan, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 1 to Term 4
Training: Various sessions offered
Training Venue: BGGS Pool
Tennis Coordinator: Ms Jane Martel, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 2 and Term 3
Competition: QGSSSA Weekly Fixtures on Friday afternoons or Saturday mornings throughout Term 3
Training: Two sessions per week, commencing Term 2
Training venue: BGGS Tennis Courts
Touch Coordinator: Mrs Jo Nisbett, [email protected]
Time of year: Term 1 and Term 2
Competition: QGSSSA Weekly Fixtures on Friday afternoons in Term 1 and Term 2
Training: One session per week commencing in Term 1
Training venue: Rangakarra
Volleyball Coordinator: Miss Kayley McCorley, [email protected]
Time of Year: Term 2 and Term 3
Competition: QGSSSA Weekly Fixtures held on Saturday mornings throughout Term 3
Training: Two sessions per week, commencing Term 2
Training Venue: BGGS, McCrae Grassie Sports Centre
Water Polo Coordinator: Ms Annabelle White, [email protected]
Time of Year: Term 4 and Term 1 (Trials held Term 3)
Competition: Brisbane Water Polo Club competition held on Saturdays throughout Term 4 and Term 1
Training: Two sessions per week in Term 4 and Term 1, holiday training in January holidays
Training Venue: BGGS Pool/Centenary Pool
*Other (optional) State and National competition opportunities as advertised in Daily Notices
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Co-curricular Music Director of Instrumental Music: Mrs Emma Dron
Music education at Brisbane Girls Grammar School is highly valued as an essential element in the academic, cultural and personal development of students. Current research indicates that while playing music offers entertainment and emotional solace, more importantly, it enhances cognition, builds powerful social connections and has significant benefits for healing, both physically and mentally.
The Instrumental Music Program at Girls Gramamr aims to provide music education of the highest quality. It aims to balance traditional musical concepts with innovative musical experiences and through best practice, instil in all students an intrinsic love of music and its benefits to our society.
The program offers 34 performing ensembles across all levels, from beginner to advanced, and a free group tuition system is available to all students participating in these ensembles. Fee paying private tuition is also available.
It is our goal to provide opportunities for every student to gain the benefits from playing music and a beginner program for strings and band, with instruments provided for the first year for a small hire fee, is available for these students.
Participation in an ensemble is the primary focus of the Instrumental Music Program, engaging all students in at least one ensemble. Each dimension—band, orchestra and choir—has several graded ensembles to accommodate all levels of proficiency. All students are allocated to ensemble positions by annual audition and perform once per term. Chorale, Euphonix, Voices and Vox are non‐auditioned choirs and are available to all students who want to sing.
Instrumental Music Ensemble and Choral Directors Director of Instrumental Music: Mrs Emma Dron
String Ensemble Directors
Coordinator of Strings: Mr Michael Patterson Mrs Emma Dron Mr Jonathan Zorzetto Ms Josephine Pollicina Mrs Helen Sharp Mrs Connie Garrett-Benson Mr Ian Weston
Band Ensemble Directors
Coordinator of Bands: Ms Laurinda Davidson Miss Ashleigh Porter Mr Paul Johnston Miss Jessica Garvey Mr Jacob Cavanough Mrs Anne MacAskill Auld
Choral Ensemble Directors
Coordinator of Choirs: Ms Clare Finlayson Mrs Emma Dron Dr Gary Holley Mrs Wendy Rolls
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Lessons Students participating in an auditioned ensemble are required to have either group or private lessons at School and/or be learning privately outside of School.
Group lessons
As part of the School’s all‐inclusive fee policy, students are entitled to enrol in one group instrumental lesson and/or one group vocal lesson at no additional cost. Group lessons are of half hour duration and take place during school hours. Lesson times are rotated each week to avoid students missing the same class within a certain period of time, and to avoid missing assessment.
All students who learn in a group situation must participate in an orchestra, band, choir or ensemble appropriate to their standard. Continued participation in group lessons is subject to a student’s attitude, attendance and pursuit of excellence in performance. All students having group lessons receive continuous reports throughout the year.
Private lessons
Students may take private music lessons in most instruments (including voice) at the School. Lesson times are negotiated directly with the teacher concerned. It is not possible to fulfil all requests for private tuition out of school hours. Such requests are prioritised for students in the senior school. Although students may study as many instruments as they wish, we recommend a maximum of two instruments at any one time.
With the exception of piano, all students who have private lessons at school must participate in an orchestra, band, choir or ensemble appropriate to their standard. The teacher will send an invoice to the student’s parents at the beginning of each term for private lessons and payment is due within a fortnight. Students taking private lessons outside the School are strongly encouraged to participate in the School ensembles.
Orchestras Symphony Orchestra
Directors: Mrs Emma Dron and Mr Jonathan Zorzetto, [email protected] and [email protected] Level: Senior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Fridays 7 am to 8.10 am
Bartok Strings
Director: Mr Michael Patterson, [email protected] Level: Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Fridays 7 am to 8.10 am
Chamber Strings
Director: Mr Michael Patterson, [email protected] Level: Senior Commitment: Twice weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Mondays 7 am to 8.10 am and Thursdays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Copland Strings
Director: Mrs Helen Sharp, [email protected] Level: Junior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Thursdays 7 am to 8.10 am
Mendelssohn Strings
Director: Mrs Emma Dron, [email protected] Level: Senior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Thursday 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Dvorak Strings
Director: Mr Jonathon Zorzetto, [email protected] Level: Junior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Tuesdays 7 am to 8.10 am
Vivaldi Strings
Director: Mr Jonathan Zorzetto, [email protected] Level: Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Tuesday 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Elgar Strings
Directors: Ms Josie Pollicina and Mrs Connie Garrett-Benson, [email protected] and [email protected] Level: Junior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Wednesdays 7 am to 8.10 am
Albinoni Strings
Director: Ms Josephine Pollicina, [email protected] Level: Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Wednesdays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
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Bands Symphonic Winds
Director: Ms Laurinda Davidson, [email protected] Level: Senior Commitment: Twice weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Mondays 3.30 pm to 5 pm and Thursdays 7 am to 8.10 am
Wind Band
Director: Miss Ashleigh Porter and Miss Jessica Garvey, [email protected] and [email protected] Level: Junior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Tuesdays 7 am to 8.10 am
Wind Symphony
Director: Mr Paul Johnston, [email protected] Level: Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Tuesdays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Big Band
Director: Miss Ashleigh Porter, [email protected] Level: Senior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Thursdays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Chamber Winds
Director: Miss Ashleigh Porter, [email protected] Level: Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Wednesdays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Stage Band
Director: Mr Paul Johnston, [email protected] Level: Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Wednesdays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Concert Winds
Director: Mr Paul Johnston, [email protected] Level: Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Thursdays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Jazz Ensemble
Director: Ms Laurinda Davidson, [email protected] Level: Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Tuesdays 7 am to 8.10 am
Concert Band
Director: Ms Laurinda Davidson, [email protected] Level: Junior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Mondays 7 am to 8.10 am
Little Big Band
Director: Mr Michael McGrath, [email protected] Level: Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Fridays 7 am to 8.10 am
Wind Ensemble
Director: Miss Jessica Garvey, [email protected] Level: Junior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Wednesdays 7 am to 8.10 am
Choirs Chamber Singers
Director: Ms Clare Finlayson, [email protected] Level: Senior Commitment: Twice weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Mondays 7 am to 8.10 am and Wednesdays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Euphonix
Director: Ms Clare Finlayson, [email protected] Level: Years 9 and 10 Junior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Thursdays 7 am to 8.10 am
Grammar Singers
Director: Dr Gary Holley, [email protected] Level: Senior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Tuesdays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Voices
Director: Dr Gary Holley, [email protected] Level: Years 7 and 8 Junior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Wednesdays 7 am to 8.10 am
Encore
Director: Mrs Wendy Rolls, [email protected] Level: Years 7 to 9 Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Mondays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Vox
Director: Ms Clare Finlayson, [email protected] Level: Years 7 to 9 Junior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Fridays 7 am to 8.10 am
Chorale
Director: Mrs Emma Dron, [email protected] Level: Years 10 to 12 Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Tuesdays 7 am to 8.10 am
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Ensembles Percussion Ensemble 1
Director: Mr Jacob Cavanough, [email protected] Level: Senior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Mondays 7 am to 8.10 am
Guitar Ensemble
Director: Mr Ian Weston, [email protected] Level: Junior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Mondays 1.25 pm to 2.05 pm
Percussion Ensemble 2
Director: Mr Jacob Cavanough, [email protected] Level: Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Mondays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Gypsy Band
Director: Mr Michael Patterson, [email protected] Level: Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Wednesdays 7 am to 8.10 am
Percussion Ensemble 3
Director: Mr Jacob Cavanough, [email protected] Level: Junior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Thursdays 7 am to 8.10 am
Celtic Ensemble
Director: Mr Jonathan Zorzetto, [email protected] Level: Junior Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Mondays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Contemporary Ensemble
Director: Dr Gary Holley, [email protected] Level: Intermediate Commitment: Weekly rehearsals Rehearsals: Thursdays 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Co-curricular Drama Head of Co-curricular Drama: TBC
The Drama department offers an extensive range of co‐curricular drama activities and performance opportunities across the year.
Drama students are invited to audition for Drama Productions and the style and timing of these productions vary from year to year. Students from Years 7 to 12 are welcome to audition for Grammar Dance at the beginning of the year and all students in Years 7 to 12 are welcome to participate in the Drama Studio offerings across the year.
Auditioned Productions Senior Drama Production
Coordinator: Mrs Katrina Riveros Year levels: Year 11 and 12 Drama students (by audition) Commitment: Term 1 and part of Term 2 Rehearsals: Two afternoons per week plus some Saturdays; every afternoon for technical week and production week
The Senior Drama Production is an auditioned production opportunity for senior students studying elective Drama. An industry artist with significant expertise and experience will be engaged as a guest artist to work in collaboration with Drama staff, to shape a piece of engaging contemporary work. The production will be staged in the Gehrmann Theatre in Term 2. Auditions are held at the commencement of the School year and interested students must ensure they can commit fully to the rehearsal period and performance season.
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Year 9 and 10 Drama Production
Year levels: Year 9 and 10 Drama students (by audition) Commitment: Term 3 and part of Term 4 Rehearsals: Weekly afternoon rehearsals, some Saturdays plus every afternoon technical and production week
The Year 9 and 10 Production is an auditioned production opportunity for Year 9 and 10 students studying elective Drama. Throughout the process, students will learn invaluable performance skills of acting and working as an ensemble. In 2020 students will have the opportunity to engage with industry professionals who have significant expertise and experience. A fun and rewarding experience, students will extend their skills beyond the classroom and develop rich personal and social connections. Information sessions and auditions are held toward the end of Term 2. Students must ensure they can commit fully to the rehearsal period and performance season.
Year 7 and 8 Drama Production
Year levels: Year 7 and 8 students (by audition) Commitment: Term 2 and part of Term 3 Rehearsals: Weekly afternoon rehearsals, some Saturdays plus technical and production week
The Year 7 and 8 Production is an auditioned production opportunity for all Year 7 and 8 students. Throughout the process, students learn invaluable performance skills of acting and working as an ensemble. Our high quality productions reflect contemporary theatre practice and ensure students are challenged and engaged. A fun and rewarding experience, students develop rich personal and social connections. Information sessions and auditions are held at the end of Term 1. A guest director work on the production in 2020. Students must ensure they can commit fully to the rehearsal period and performance season.
Co-curricular Performance Groups The Drama Studio
The Drama Studio provides an opportunity for students of all Year levels to participate in weekly workshops over a semester, exploring performance skills of acting and devising, in a fun, supportive and social environment. Through ensemble building activities, improvisational games and group work, students employ their creativity and imagination as they devise, rehearse and shape dramatic action. A range of theatrical traditions may be explored, depending on group interest, and these vary each year. Guest artists and industry practitioners are often invited to facilitate workshops. The students’ work may culminate in a public performance that is presented to peers or the wider Girls Grammar community.
Year levels: All Commitment: Weekly rehearsals across Semester modules Rehearsals: Thursday afternoons 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Grammar Dance
Girls with dance experience are invited to join the Grammar Dance Club to share their passion for dance with girls across all Year levels. Contemporary and jazz styles are offered, and girls are instructed by an external choreographer. Classes run before School from 7 am to 8 am. There are limited spaces to ensure student safety in classes. Auditions are held in Term 1. Students are able to extend their dance skills, flexibility and strength, are given opportunities to choreograph routines, and enjoy the fun and social nature of the group.
Year levels: All Commitment: Weekly rehearsals across mid Term 1 to early Term 4 Rehearsals: One morning per week, 7 am to 8 am
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Debating Coordinator of Debating: Ms Anne Byrne Debating promotes self‐confidence and skills of logical thinking. A debater learns to work as part of a team to achieve shared goals, organise ideas and construct effective arguments. The School competes in several competitions, with the Queensland Debating Union (QDU) competition attracting the most teams. Years 7, 8 and 9 students also are able to compete in the Brisbane Girls Junior Debating competition which is held across Term 1 and Term 2. Students in Years 10, 11 and 12 may also choose to compete in the Brisbane Girls Debating Association (BGDA) competition. Further details of each competition are below.
AIDPSC Coordinator: Ms Anne Byrne, [email protected]
The Australian Individual Debating and Public Speaking Competition is open to students from Years 10 and 11. It is held over three days in the September school holidays. The top eight students from this competition are invited to form the Australian team. This is a challenging and exciting opportunity for students looking to expand and extend their skills.
Commitment: Dependent on progression through individual competitions Meets: Weekly with a coach, more often in senior divisions and at various stages of the competitions
BGGS Interhouse Competition Coordinator: Ms Anne Byrne, [email protected]
Students in Years 7 are eligible to participate in this competition. House Groups are prepared by the House Debating Captain and compete against one another in a round-robin format, debating topical and interesting issues. Students are encouraged to participate in the whole class event as either a debater, official or supporter. This competition spans Terms 2 and 3.
Brisbane Girls Junior Debating Competition (BGJD) Coordinator: Miss Meghan Parry and Mr David Rawson, [email protected] and [email protected]
This competition provides young debaters with experience in short preparation debates. It is open to Years 7, 8 and 9 debaters, and comprises five debates held from March to June. Girls are coached weekly in teams, and most find the skills they develop complement those required for the QDU competition. Both QDU debaters and girls with no other debating commitments are eligible and encouraged to enter. The competition is run on Tuesday afternoons every two or three weeks.
Mooting Coordinator: Mrs Eldene Johnston, [email protected]
Mooting is the oral presentation of a legal issue or problem against an opposing counsel and before a judge. Mooting can assist in building confidence in public speaking, general research and presentation skills. Experience in mooting can benefit students whether or not they plan to follow a legal career path upon Elegraduation.
QUT Business School Brisbane Girls Debating Competition (BGDA) Coordinator: Ms Katy Moulsdale, [email protected]
This competition offers debaters in Years 10, 11 and 12 the opportunity to hone their short preparation debating skills with a series of debates in Terms 1 and 2 against teams from several other committed girls’ schools. The competition is run on Monday afternoons every two weeks, hosted by Girls Grammar, and provides debaters with access to advice and mentoring from experienced adjudicators and senior debaters. Usually, debaters are drawn from the QDU teams.
State Debating Team Coordinator: Ms Anne Byrne, [email protected]
The trials for this competition are run by QDU on weekends throughout March. Debating students in Years 10, 11 and 12 are encouraged to trial, for the experience of debating at a higher level and the opportunity to represent their State at a national level.
The Queensland Debating Union (QDU) Competition. Coordinator: Ms Anne Byrne, [email protected]
This competition is open to all Year levels and runs from early March to early September for Years 8 to 12 and in Term 3 for Year 7, with a slightly different format. Girls Grammar enters up to 30 teams, which compete throughout the season. The Years 8 to 12 competition consists of a preliminary round of four debates in pools drawn from local schools across South East Queensland. These debates take place every three weeks across Terms 1 and 2. Successful teams from this phase are invited to continue in a ‘knock-out’ format for six more debates to determine the State winner for each Year level. The elite Senior A division comprises the top 16 teams from the previous year’s Year 11 competition, with the format differing slightly from that of the other five levels.
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Service-based Activities Director of Service: Mrs Lynne Mungomery
Creating opportunities for Grammar girls to give back to the community is a valued part of our Co‐curricular Program. Not only does the wider community benefit from the girls’ time, energy, fundraising efforts and involvement, but they themselves also acquire a deeper appreciation of people in need and a positive sense of community.
Our girls take on leadership roles in the Service program that give them a true sense of purpose and gratitude, and contribute to their personal, social and emotional development. The girls themselves choose the majority of the organisations the School works with and activities are student‐led. Through this engagement, they gain a greater understanding of how to develop successful projects that can make a difference to the lives of others.
Coordinators:
Brisbane Central State School Homework Club: Mrs Jody Forbes
BGGS Ambassadors: Ms Sarah Frew
Doctors Without Borders: Miss Gerri Bernard and Mrs Monica Urry
Ecumenical Coffee Brigade: Mr Bradley Hacker and Ms Sam Young
Grammar Environmental Conservation Organisation (GECO) and Grammar Goes Green: Mrs Sally Callie, Mr Gideon Huppert and Mrs Chris Woodford
Health Promoting Schools: Mrs Sanae Leone and Mrs Izabela Minuzzo
Jump Rope for Heart: Ms Cathy Rees
Kirsten Jack Memorial Leukemia Committee: Dr Ann Farley and Miss Meghan Parry
Library Angels: Ms Tilley Askey
Old Girls Assocation Volunteers: Ms Ruth Jans
Pay it Forward: Mrs Sybil Edwards and Mrs Kelly Woods
Save the Children: Ms Sharon Anderson and Ms Corrine Scruby
Second Chance Committee: Ms Kara Coughlan and Mrs Prue Morgan
Steptember: Mrs Lynne Mungomery
Study Buddies: Mrs Paula Quinn and Mrs Kate Kildey
Uralla Club: Ms Susan Garson and Ms Abby Hills
World Vision: Ms Sarah Boyle and Mrs Jan O’Sullivan
Brisbane Central State School Homework Club Grammar girls assist students from a nearby primary school, with one-on-one homework help, language skills and reading. Together student volunteers meet at Brisbane Central State School one afternoon per week and make meaningful connections with younger students.
Coordinator: Mrs Jody Forbes, [email protected] Year levels: Year 11 and 12 Commitment: One afternoon per week
BGGS Ambassadors Students in Year 7 to 10, who would like to share their passion for their House and their School with the BGGS Community and beyond, are encouraged to join the BGGS Ambassadors group.
Students must commit to the group for the whole year and representatives are required from every House. Volunteers will receive training in effective communication skills and how best to present Girls Grammar to current and future families, and other visitors to the School. Most ambassador activities will occur outside of school hours and these may include activities such as assisting at incoming Year 7 Student Interview days, House Afternoon Teas and Parent Information Evenings.
Coordinator: Ms Sarah Frew, [email protected] Year levels: Year 7 to 10 Commitment: Volunteers are called upon as required by the School Calendar
Doctors Without Borders The Doctors Without Borders (DWB) service group is for students interested in biological/medical sciences and humanitarian aid. Student Leaders facilitate discussions about issues surrounding a current epidemic, disease, chronic illness, or humanitarian issue that is currently being addressed by the Médecins Sans Frontières community. They also act as liaisons between the service group and the wider school community, as well as between the service group and the wider MSF community.
Coordinators: Miss Gerri Bernard and Mrs Monica Urry, [email protected] and [email protected] Year levels: Year 10 to 12 Commitment: Fortnightly discussion group meetings
Ecumenical Coffee Brigade (ECB) The ECB is a not‐for‐profit organisation of volunteers that offer food and a hot drink to people experiencing homelessness within the Brisbane CBD. Students have the opportunity to provide service to this group through the preparation of sandwiches that are offered on several mornings throughout the year.
Coordinators: Mr Brad Hacker and Ms Sam Young, [email protected] and [email protected]
Year levels: Year 12, and Year 11 from Semester 2 Commitment: Students sign-up to volunteer, two opportunities are offered each term
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Grammar Environmental and Conservation Organisation (GECO) and Grammar Goes Green Young people have a natural interest in the future of the planet. GECO is a practical club that attends to concerns in our own school environment, as well as being involved in national and global conservation issues. Students from all Year levels are welcome to be involved. GECO members also contribute to Grammar Goes Green activities at the Rangakarra Recreational and Environmental Education Centre.
Coordinators: Mrs Sally Callie, Mr Gideon Huppert and Mrs Chris Woodford, [email protected], [email protected] and [email protected], Year levels: All Commitment: Attendance at weekly meetings and contribution to environmental awareness activities throughout the year
Health Promoting Schools This group was established in 1996 to formalise the School’s commitment to health in the community—both internal and external. Health Promoting Schools is an intiative of the Ottawa Charter created by the United Nations. The purpose of the group is to increase awareness of health issues in our society and provide an opportunity for students to organise activities to promote and fundraise for various causes. This group provides all age groups in the School with leadership and organisation experiences for our School community.
Coordinators: Mrs Sanae Leone and Ms Izabela Minuzzo, [email protected] and [email protected] Year levels: All Commitment: Attendance at fortnightly meetings and contribution to awareness and fundraising activities throughout the year Meets: One lunch time per week
Jump Rope for Heart All Year 7 students have the opportunity to participate in this program that combines physical activity, awareness activities and fundraising for the National Heart Foundation.
Coordinator: Ms Cathy Rees, [email protected] Year level: Year 7 Commitment: Participation in a skipping fitness program in 7HPE classes and participation in the Year level ‘Jump- Off’.
Kirsten Jack Memorial Leukemia Committee The KJMLC Committee was established in honour of past student, Kirsten Jack (1978), who sadly died from leukemia in June 1977. Members aim to increase awareness of issues relating to cancer and to raise money for research by participating in school-based fundraising campaigns and local initiatives. In addition, the Committee donates funds to several charities to assist children with leukemia.
Coordinators: Dr Ann Farley and Ms Meghan Parry, [email protected] and [email protected] Year levels: All Commitment: Attendance at weekly meetings and contribution to awareness and fundraising activities throughout the year Meets: One lunchtime per week
Library Angels Library Angels is a service activity group where members contribute to the School by helping in the library. Activities include re-shelving and covering books, sorting music and working shifts at the circulation desk. Each Angel has extended borrowing rights, and if she is also a member of Libellum, she is further upgraded to Library Superstar status and may borrow twice as many resources as other students. You do not need to know how to cover a book or understand the Dewey decimal system. As long as you are friendly, helpful, reliable and diligent, you are the perfect person for Library Angels.
Contact any library staff member to register your interest.
Coordinator: Ms Tilley Askey, [email protected] Year levels: All Commitment: Introductory workshops and tutorials on the skills required, then volunteer as available Meets: Occasional meetings in term time
OGA Volunteers Volunteers for this School organisation play a vital role in the administrative, meet and greet and ambassador responsibilities for the Old Girl Association functions. Volunteers will develop their communication, organisation and leadership skills as they share their knowledge and pride in their school with our visitors.
Coordinator: Ms Ruth Jans, [email protected] Year level: Year 11 Commitment: Volunteer for events as required Meets: When required for OGA administrative assistance
Pay it Forward Pay it Forward is a service club for Year 7 students, which meets during lunchtime. It supports other service clubs within the School by making items that can be used for fundraising purposes, and allows girls from different Houses to meet and enjoy craft together.
Coordinators: Mrs Sally Downes and Ms Sybil Edwards, [email protected] and [email protected] Year level: Year 7 Commitment: Weekly meetings Meets: One lunchtime per week
Save the Children This internationally recognised, non‐government organisation provides relief and helps support children in Australia and around the world.
Coordinators: Ms Sharon Anderson and Ms Corrine Scruby, [email protected] and [email protected] Year levels: All Commitment: Attendance at fortnightly meetings and contribution to awareness and fundraising throughout the year Meets: One lunchtime per fortnight
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Second Chance Committee In 2005, the first Second Chance Committee was established at Brisbane Girls Grammar School. The committee is dedicated to raising awareness and funds to support locally oragnised programs that aim to help women experiencing homelessness. Under the umbrella of Dr Dale Spender’s external Second Chance Fundraising Program, senior students from Years 11 and 12 aim to spread awareness of the realities of homelessness and actively support local women at risk. At BGGS, the girls work hard throughout the year to develop a range of activities that continue to create awareness of the plight of homelessness in the Brisbane area.
Coordinators: Ms Kara Coughlan, Ms Hannah Gillam and Ms Prue Morgan, [email protected], [email protected] and [email protected] Year levels: Years 10 (Term 4 only), 11 and 12 Commitment: Attendance at weekly meetings and contribution to awareness and fundraising throughout the year Meets: One lunchtime per week
Senior Service Students in Years 11 and 12 may elect to continue the community service commenced in Year 10, initiate their own volunteering experiences, or participate in established partnerships with community organisations.
Coordinator: Mrs Lynne Mungomery, [email protected] Year levels: Year 11 and 12
Steptember In support of the 2013 School charity, the Cerebral Palsy Alliance, teams of four participants track their daily step count and record their results on the interactive Steptember website. Steptember is not just about walking your way to better health; participants can run, cycle, swim or participate in other activities to reach their daily step target. Teams are encouraged to fundraise throughout the event using an online fundraising mechanism. Funds raised make a great difference to the lives of people with cerebral palsy. Funds are donated to research or resources.
Coordinator: Mrs Lynne Mungomery, [email protected] Year levels: All Commitment: Students and staff sign up in teams, collect sponsors and log daily steps throughout September
Study Buddies Year 11 and junior students work together to provide each other with support for their academic and school life.
Coordinators: Ms Paula Quinn and Mrs Kate Kildey, [email protected] and, [email protected] Year levels: Years 7 and 11 (and as requested by Year 7 students) Commitment: Volunteer for involvement, meetings as scheduled between buddies
The Uralla Club The Uralla Club is a student‐based service club that aims to make a difference and affect change in relation to the complex issues faced by Australia’s Indigenous people. Members from Years 7 to 12 aim to raise awareness, educate the Girls Grammar community and strive to ‘close the gap’ that exists among Australia’s population.
Coordinators: Ms Susan Garson and Ms Abby Hills, [email protected] and [email protected] Year levels: All Commitment: Attendance at weekly meetings and contribution to awareness and fundraising activities throughout the year Meets: One lunchtime per week
World Vision—Child Sponsorship and Gift Program Girls Grammar supports World Vision by sponsoring four children, writing letters to the sponsor children, and supporting the World Vision gift program. For each of the School’s sponsor children and their communities, we enable access to clean, safe drinking water, provide new classrooms and school supplies, contribute to education programs on preventing HIV and other diseases, and assist in improving local healthcare facilities. Years 8 and 9 House Groups support the program.
Coordinators: Ms Sarah Boyle and Ms Jan O’Sullivan, [email protected] and jo’[email protected] Year levels: Years 8 and 9 Commitment: Through House Group and House Service Captains
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Interest-based Activities The diverse range of clubs and special interest activities available at the School allow girls many opportunities to deepen their understanding and expand their skills in areas of personal interest, in a fun environment. While the focus is on enjoyment, many of these activities have a real‐life or community focus and provide the girls with significant challenges that help develop a sense of leadership, maturity, complex reasoning and responsibility.
Coordinators:
Duke of Edinburgh: Ms Anna Flourenzo and Marrapatta staff
Academic Extension Activities:
Australian Science Olypaids: Mr Alan Allinson, Mrs Jaqueline Ross and Ms Tracey Monteith
Da Vinci Decathlon: Mrs Alison Carmichael, Dr Ruth Burnett, Ms Kat Talbot and Ms Lesley Roy
Ecoman: Dr Sam Peng and Mrs Kelly Woods
Future Problem Solving: Ms Lesley Roy
History Competetions: Ms Julie Hennessey
Opti-Minds: Dr Ruth Burnett, Dr Pete Jenkins and Mrs Hazel Boltman
Robotics Club: Mr Brendon Thomas
Sigma Maths: Mrs Judy Muller and Mrs Lee Mazzaglia
Student Entrepreneurs: Dr Sam Peng, Dr Phillipa Greig and Mr Shane Skillen
Titration: Mrs Amee Magee
Clubs and Activities: Anime: Mr Rick Laur
Apollo Club: Dr Christine Madill
Art Talks: Ms Hollie Hollie Art Walks: Mr Donald Pincott and Ms Kirsten Eadie
Art Workshop: Mr Donald Pincott
Astronomy: Miss Gerri Bernard
Athene: Miss Meghan Parry
Calligraphy: Mrs Violet Ross
Chess: Mrs Catherine Lay
Chinese Club: Mrs Paula Quinn
Design Club: Mr Shane Skillen and Ms Emma Jones
Digital Photography Club: Mrs Maggie Loye
Games and Puzzling Club: Mr Fabrice Alleaume
Grammar Engineers: Dr Ruth Barnett
Gwen Harwood Society: Ms Tracey Maclean and Dr Christine Madill
Kleio Society: Dr Rashna Taraporewalla
Libellum: Ms Rachael Christopherson and Mr David Rawson
Melbas Club: Mrs Julie Smith and Ms Katy Moulsdale
Merle Weaver Public Speaking: Miss Kathryn Talbot and Ms Jo Genders
Music Enrichment Activities: Ms Adele Cummings
Publications Committee: Ms Kirsten Eadie and Mrs Thea Darnell
Short ‘n Sweet Drawing Club: Ms Hollie Hollie
Slam Poetry: Mrs Julie Smith
Songwriter Studio: Mr Andrew Pennay
United Nations Club: Ms Alison Dare
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Anime In 2007, the Anime Club was officially formed and headed by a Committee of senior students. The aim of Anime Club is to provide students with an opportunity to experience a variety of Japanese animated series (known as Anime), ranging from TV shows like Soul Eater to world‐renowned animated films such as Spirited Away.
The club provides a forum for students to discuss new or unfamiliar series with each other and share opinions and ideas. Recently the Anime Club included manga (hand‐drawn book series) and cosplay (short for ‘costume play’, where avid fans of anime dress up and perform skits as their favourite characters).
Cocoordinator: Mr Rick Laur, [email protected] Year level: All Meets: Friday lunchtime
Apollo Club Apollo Club is a book club of combined invited and self‐nominated Brisbane Girls Grammar School and Brisbane Grammar School senior students who meet to discuss a challenging range of texts in a rigorous and entertaining manner.
Coordinator: Ms Christine Madill, [email protected] Year level: Year 12 Meets: Once each term
Art Talks Art Talks is a new activity in 2020, where students will meet to learn about specific artists, genres, mediums and/or techniques to grow general knowledge and gain an appreciation for Art. Activities may also include guided walks of the School Art Collection.
Coordinator: Ms Hollie Hollie, [email protected] Year levels: All Meets: Once per fortnight
Art Walks Once a term, the Art Department hosts an art walk in Brisbane. Art walks are held on a Saturday and involve meeting at a particular location and walking as a group between several galleries to see a variety of art exhibitions. Occasionally art walks will involve visiting an artist in their studio. Students, family and friends of the Girls Grammar community are all welcome to attend. Details of upcoming art walks are advertised in BGGS News.
Coordinators: Ms Kirsten Eadie and Mr Donald Pincott, [email protected] and [email protected] Year levels: All Commitment: No sign up required Offered: One art walk per term (Saturday morning)
Art Workshop Each term, the Visual Art Department conducts an art workshop for students. The workshops take place in the Visual Art Department and are supervised and conducted by Visual Art staff or visiting artists. The aim of the workshops is to extend and enrich each student’s artistic abilities. Courses have included photography, printmaking, oil painting, life drawing, fashion design and experimental painting techniques. Information for the workshops is available through Daily Notices and BGGS News. Students who apply for the courses will receive a general conditions sheet and a permission letter.
Coordinator: Mr Donald Pincott, [email protected] Year levels: All Commitment: Advance sign up Offered: Four or five times per year
Astronomy Club Astronomy Club has the ability to be astonishing and, with the launch of the Dorothy Hill Observatory at the Marrapatta Memorial Outdoor Education Centre, BGGS has the opportunity to share this wonderful Science with students in myriad and exciting ways. The Astronomy Club meets once a week to explore all things ‘space’, remotely accessing the observatory and collaborating on projects with affiliate schools and universities.
Coordinator: Miss Gerri Bernard, [email protected] Year levels: Year 11 and 12 (by invitation only) Meets: Approximately one evening per month as advertised in Daily Notices
Athene Athene is a discussion forum group comprised of senior students from both Brisbane Girls Grammar School and Brisbane Grammar School. Membership is by invitation. Meetings are held approximately 12 times per year, in the evenings, alternating between the two school campuses. Each meeting, Year 12 Athenians present researched papers on an issue of philosophical, political, social or otherwise topical interest. The papers are followed by 30 to 40 minutes of spirited discussion.
Coordinator: Miss Meghan Parry, [email protected] Year levels: Year 11 and 12 (by invitation only) Meets: Approximately one evening per month as advertised in Daily Notices
Australian Science Olympiads (ASO) The Australian Biology, Chemistry and Physics Olympiads provide valuable experience in working with other students and teachers who are passionate about science. Students can launch themselves into the International Science Olympiads (ISOs) through being involved with the ASO program. The ISOs are regarded as the ‘Olympic games for science students’. Australian Science Olympians compete with students from different countries for a ranking or medal in the ISO.
Coordinators: Mr Alan Allinson (Physics), Ms Tracey Monteith (Biology) and Ms Jacqueline Ross (Chemistry), [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Year levels: Year 11 (by invitation only) Commitment: One hour per week Terms 2 and 3
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Calligraphy The Japanese calligraphy group was formed in 2000 with students from Brisbane Girls Grammar School and Brisbane Grammar School. The group aims to practice and gain a greater understanding of this beautiful Japanese art form. The group meets five to six times per term for one-hour workshops after school at Brisbane Girls Grammar School. The classes are led by a master calligrapher and are open to all students in the School. No experience is required.
Coordinator: Mrs Violet Ross, [email protected] Year levels: All Commitment: Five to six afternoons per term Meets: Thursday 3.30 pm to 4.30 pm
Chess Club Chess promotes the logical, planning and sequential aspects of the brain. Chess Club introduces students to the rules of chess as they are presented with patterns and strategies to improve their ability. Students may also play against a computer and obtain their ranking.
Coordinator: Mrs Catherine Lay, [email protected] Year levels: All Meets: One lunch time per week
Chinese Club The China Club offers students the opportunity to further develop their understanding of the Chinese language and culture. The Club promotes an understanding of China and Asia through cooking demonstrations, art and craft activities, traditional games and celebrations of Chinese festivals.
Coordinator: Ms Paula Quinn, [email protected] Year levels: All Meets: One lunch time per week
Da Vinci Decathlon The da Vinci Decathlon is an academic competition designed to challenge and stimulate the minds of school students. Students compete in teams across 10 disciplines: Science; English; Mathematics and Chess; Code Breaking, Engineering; Philosophy; Art and Poetry; Creative Producers; Cartography; and General Knowledge. As the competition places a particular emphasis on higher-order thinking skills, problem solving and creativity, it is a good opportunity for girls looking for extension. During Term 1, girls are invited to self‐nominate by completing an Expression of Interest Form via the Daily Notices. A team of eight students per Year level is selected.
Coordinators: Dr Ruth Burnett, Ms Alison Carmichael and Ms Cathy Clemot, [email protected], [email protected] and [email protected] Year levels: Years 7 to 10 Commitment: Half of Term 1 and half of Term 2 Meets: Weekly (with one full-day event in May)
Design Club The purpose of the club is to provide students with the opportunity to learn about the latest innovations and technologies across the various design industries.
Workshop activities will be used to instil some of the key skills that are essential for the success in the rapidly changing world: entrepreneurship; innovative thinking; dynamic creativity; technical skills; and design basics for prototyping. Students learn leadership, team building, project management, business planning, public speaking, marketing, collaboration, writing and presentation skills.
Coordinator: Ms Emma Jones, [email protected] Year levels: Years 9 to 12 Meets: One lunchtime per week
Digital Photography Club The Digital Photography Club is open to any student with a passion for photography that is interested in expanding their skills and sharing creative ideas.
By attending fortnighly meetings, workshops and school events, students explore new photography opportunities, learn to use professional equipment and image editing software.
Coordinator: Mrs Maggie Loye, [email protected] Year levels: All Meets: One lunch time per fortnight, occasional workshops
Duke of Edinburgh The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme is a program that encourages young people between the ages of 14 and 25 to participate in a large cross-section of experiences and activities. Candidates are exposed to a variety of new activities, which combine to make a challenging program. The scheme is intended to develop qualities of maturity, self-confidence, responsibility and willingness to help others.
There are three awards: Bronze; Silver; and Gold. Each of these awards covers four sections: Service; Expeditions; Skills; and Physical Recreation. Members organise their own program and have record books to complete. Badges are awarded by the State Award Committee at the completion of each level of the scheme. Meetings are held as required and students are notified through Daily Notices and email. Expeditions are run at various times throughout the year. For further information, visit the Clubs page on Minerva.
Coordinators: Ms Anna Flourenzo, [email protected] Year levels: Years 9 to 12 (14 plus years of age) Commitment: Minimum six months for Bronze Level Meets: Trip planning and logistics prior to expeditions
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Ecoman Ecoman provides selected students the opportunity to participate in an intensive three‐day business skills program. The name Ecoman is derived from the words economics and management. The program is held across three days with approximately 18 participants and is designed to simulate the operations of a medium sized manufacturing company over a four‐year period. Business concepts such as strategic planning, financial accounting, cost management, sales and marketing and human resource management are introduced, and then reinforced through the operation of a company. The participants form three companies that compete for the market share, sales and profit while operating in a dynamic business environment over the simulated four-year period.
Coordinator: Mr Sam Peng, [email protected] Year level: Year 11 (by selection) Commitment: Three-day event
Future Problem Solving Future Problem Solving is an international education program for students of all ages, focusing on the development of critical, creative and futuristic thinking skills. Students are challenged to apply their minds to some of the significant issues facing the world today and in the future, equipping them with the vision, skills and tools to design and promote positive futures for society.
Coordinator: Ms Lesley Roy, [email protected] Year levels: All Meets: TBC
Games and Puzzling Club Members of the Games and Puzzling Club meet once a week to bring in and work on a variety of games and puzzles together. There is scope for students to design and create their own games, with the potential to enter these in to appropriate competitions as relevant.
Coordinator: Mr Fabrice Alleume, [email protected] Year levels: All Meets: Monday lunch time 12.45 pm to 1.15pm in W15
Grammar Engineers Year 7 students have the opportunity to join Brisbane Grammar School Year 7 students in undertaking an Engineering design challenge. Students also learn about the various phases and roles involved in construction and project management and from teams to complete a ‘build’.
Coordinator: Dr Ruth Barnett, [email protected] Year level: Year 7 Meets: Term 3 and 4
Grammar Young Writers Club The Spring Hill Young Writers Group comprises Year 7 students from Brisbane Girls Grammar School and Brisbane Grammar School. This group collaborated over a series of workshops to produce original short stories. Students will work with Australian author, Lynette Noni, to enhance their writing skills and participate in a writing excursion to Roma Street Parklands.
The program extends over five sessions, comprising two full school days and three after school commitments. The excursion to Roma Street Parklands will involve a series of eight writing activity stations and team building games to develop the collaborative writing experience.
Coordinator: Ms Kathryn Talbot, [email protected] Year level: Year 7 Event dates: TBC
Gwen Harwood Society The Gwen Harwood Society is a creative writing group for all students interested in expressing themselves through poetry, prose or drama. The Gwen Harwood Society meets fortnightly throughout the year. Students participate in a variety of writing activities designed to stimulate their imaginations and develop their creative writing skills.
Coordinator: Ms Tracey MacLean, [email protected] Year levels: All Meets: One lunch time per fortnight
History Competition Each year, students have the opportunity to enter work into the History Teachers Association Queensland. The Historical Wiritng Competition helps students hone their research, archiving and writing skills.
Coordinator: Mrs Julie Hennessey, [email protected] Year levels: All Meets: Lunch time as required.
Kleio Society The Kleio Society is a group for students interested in the Ancient World. At meetings, students participate in activities that explore what life was like for ancient peoples of Greece, Rome and Egypt. They also plan activities that promote the study of history and raise funds to assist with the purchase of antiquities, which in the past have been donated to the UQ Antiquities Museum.
Coordinators: Dr Rashna Taraporewalla, [email protected] Year levels: All Meets: Monday lunch time 12.45 pm to 1.15 pm in C204
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Libellum This group meets weekly to preview new fiction purchased by the Beanland Library and review illustrated books, popular fiction and nonfiction, graphic novels and literature websites. The club also promotes writers festivals, book launches, writing competitions and book trailers. Students who love books or want to develop wider reading can enjoy interacting with each other in an informal and relaxed atmosphere.
Coordinators: Ms Rachel Christopherson and Mr David Rawson, [email protected] and [email protected] Year levels: All Meets: Tuesday lunch time
Mathematics Competitions and ∑ Maths Sigma (∑) Maths provides students who enjoy the challenge of Mathematics the opportunity to engage in a variety of pursuits beyond the scope of the Maths classroom. Throughout the year, students are able to participate in many competitions, particularly focusing on problem solving. Opportunities range from local events, organised by the Queensland Association of Mathematics Teachers, to national competitions organised by the Australian Mathematics Trust.
In addition, within the School, special events are held to celebrate the diverse nature of mathematics, such as the Year 7 Maths Quiz, the Year 8 Maths Mania Afternoon and the popular Years 9 and 10 Maths camp at Marrapatta.
Students are also encouraged to try the ‘Problem of the Week’, available on Moodle, as well as attend Sigma Maths afternoons, where interest topics are presented in a workshop setting. Another aspect of Sigma Maths that is growing is the involvement in online computational and algorithm thinking competitions.
Coordinators: Ms Lee Mazzaglia and Ms Stefanie Bailey, [email protected] and [email protected] Year levels: All Commitment: Sign-up required Meets: Various opportunities throughout the year as advertised in the Daily Notices
Melbas Club The Melbas Club is a friendly group that regularly meets to help each other become confident and effective communicators through Public Speaking. The opportunity to practice in front of a small audience empowers students and develops confidence.
Coordinator: Mrs Jules Smith, [email protected] Year levels: All Meets: Once per fortnight
Merle Weaver Public Speaking The Junior and Senior competitions are held every year and are open to students in Years 10 and 12, one representing each house.
Coordinator: Miss Kathryn Talbot, [email protected] Year levels: Year 10 and 12 Commitment: Junior and Senior Competitions Meets: In the lead up to InterHouse events
Music Enrichment Activities Music Enrichment activities are designed to meet the individual and collective interests of the group and incorporates Music theory, Composers Camp, recording technologies and interactive sound-scaping.
Coordinator: Ms Adele Cummings, [email protected] Year levels: All Meets: Lunch times and after school as arranged
Opti-MINDS Opti-MINDS is about problem solving, creativity, divergence, time management, and teamwork. It is a performance-based activity that commences in Term 2 and prepares students for competition in Term 3. Teams of seven students are formed, which must include members from Years 8, 9 and 10. The teams practice skills for the Spontaneous Problem and the Long-Term Problem. Problem categories are: Language/Literature; Maths/Engineering; and Social Sciences. A priority of the Club is that students have fun and enjoy themselves, while a great deal of learning occurs at the same time.
Coordinator: Dr Ruth Burnett, Dr Peter Jenkins and Ms Tracey Monteith, [email protected], [email protected] and [email protected] Year levels: Years 7 to 10 Commitment: End of Term 2 and all of Term 3 Meets: At least once per week
Publications Committee Throughout the year, students work to collate and edit photos and articles that will be published in the annual School Magazine.
Coordinator: Ms Kristen Eadie and Mrs Thea Darnell, [email protected] and [email protected] Year levels: Years 11 and 12 Commitment: Attendance at weekly meetings and collection and collation of articles Meets: One lunchtime per week
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Robotics Club The Robiotics Club engages students to develop science, engineering and technology skills to inspre innovation and foster self-confidence, communication and leadership. Students design and build robots to complete a set of challenges within a competitive framework.
Coordinator: Mr Brendan Thomas, [email protected] Year levels: Allv Commitment: Robotics competition available (optional) Meets: One afternoon per week
Short n’ Sweet Drawing Club The Short n’ Sweet Drawing Club allows girls to practice their creative drawing skills in the company of other artists.
Coordinator: Miss Hollie Hollie Year levels: All students Commitment: Attendance at weekly meetings and collection and collation of articles Meets: On the 2nd and 3rd Monday each Term, 3.15 pm to 5 pm
Slam Poetry Slam Poetry is a club for poetry enthusiasts who wish to listen to poetry and share their own poems, with a competition held towards the end of the year.
Coordinator: Ms Julie Smith, [email protected] Year Levels: Years 7 to 12 Meets: One lunchtime per fortnight
Songwriter Studio Curriculum Music students undergo formal instruction in song writing within relatively strict parameters to ensure an even skill base. This club provides an opportunity for song writing extension and acceleration with more individualised instruction. Songwriter Studio is offered to students who demonstrate substantial skill in song writing. This club is designed to prepare students to run a Songwriter Showcase at the annual Open Day in Term 3. Students participate in weekly classes involving songwriting, masterclasses, writing sessions, critique sessions and guest performers and presenters including Brisbane Girls Grammar School alumni song writers.
Coordinator: Mr Andrew Pennay, [email protected] Year Levels: Years 7 to 12 (by invitation) Commitment: All year Meets: Thursday 12.30 pm to 1.20 pm
Titration The aim of this competition is to encourage students who enjoy practical chemistry to develop their skills and reward those who develop a high level of proficiency. Students work in teams of three. Each team will be provided with three solutions. A solution of hydrochloric acid of known concentration will be used to determine the unknown concentration of sodium hydroxide and acetic acid solutions. Judging is based on the values of each team member combined and how close they get to the actual concentrations for the sodium hydroxide and acetic acid solutions. No prior experience with titration is necessary, as Year 11 students do not study titration until Term 3. Throughout the training process, girls tend to improve their persistence and precision and accuracy with the relevant glassware.
Coordinator: Ms Amee Magee, [email protected] Year levels: Year 11 and 12 Chemistry students Commitment: End of Term 1 and most of Term 2 Meets: Training is held on Tuesday mornings from 7 am to 8 am. The competition is held one Saturday morning during May.
UN Club The United Nations Club is an opportunity for students in Years 10 to 12 to discuss current international, national and local issues that affect the world and us. The Club provides the opportunity for students to meet diplomats, politicians, university lecturers and other members of the global community. The Club also provides an opportunity for students to meet other young adults from schools across Queensland at conferences and competitions. It is a valuable opportunity to engage with the broader community and network with industry leaders.
Coordinator: Ms Alison Dare, [email protected] Year Levels: Years 10 to 12 Meets: Beta Monday 12.45 pm (venue as advertised in the Daily Notices)
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