Newsletter - Term 2, Week 6 2025
Principal's Update
I can’t believe we are already halfway through term 2 and our Year 12’s are halfway through their lessons for the year.
We have had a very smooth start to the term with the highlight being a visit from the Minister of Education, Mr Blair Boyer MP, the member for King, Ms Rhiannon Pearce, and the Chief Executive for the Department for Education, Mr Martin Westwell on Monday 12 May.
Our special guests listened to our Year 10/11 Student Leadership class present the projects they have been working on this year. They highlighted the work they did to raise over $7,000 for the Big AL Foundation, the leadership conference they attended, the mentoring roles they are undertaking with younger students and their plans for the next casual clothes day which will raise vital funds for Backpacks for SA Kids. I am so proud of this group of students. They are remarkable young men and women, and they are showing what is possible when students are given a voice, agency and the support to make a positive difference in the lives of others. They are expertly led by their teacher Marc Wallis.
This program has been so successful we are having discussions to explore how we can provide similar leadership opportunities to our middle school students from 2026.
Our guests then visited the Discovery Centre where they talked with some wonderful students about their enterprise business Golden Graze. The students presented each of our guests with a beautiful grazing box as a gift and thanks for giving us some of their precious time.
I have exciting news to share with our community. Building on the success of our AFL Girls program we will be expanding this to include boys from 2026. This will be a separate program in addition to the girls’ program. Trials will take place in feeder primary schools during term 3 and 4 and will be for students living inside our school zone.
Farewell Kerrie Stevenson
Our much-loved Defence School Mentor (DSM), Kerrie Stevenson, has made the tough decision to resign from her role for personal reasons effective from Friday 6 June. Kerrie has been a fantastic addition to our wellbeing team, and we will miss her greatly. It is one of those situations where Kerrie still loves her work, but she must put the needs of herself and her family first. Thanks, Kerrie, for everything you have done supporting our defence students and families. We wish you all the best for whatever comes next.
I anticipate we will commence a recruitment process in early June to find Kerrie’s replacement with a likely start date for the successful candidate in early term 3. During the recruitment period the wellbeing team will continue to provide support to defence students as required.
Upcoming Events
- Following the long weekend for the King’s Birthday, Tuesday 10 June is a Student Free Day. Staff will be engaged in professional learning to deepen their understanding of how to differentiate the learning to accommodate the needs of each student.
- Year 10 Exams occur from Wednesday 11 June until Friday 13 June. They will take place in classes, supervised by the subject teacher, and are generally for Science, Maths, History, English Literacy Studies and Languages subjects.
- Year 10 Work Experience begins on Monday 16 June and concludes on Friday 20 June.
- Year 11 Exams occur from Wednesday 18 June until Friday 20 June. They will take place in the Drama classrooms in the Performing Arts Building. All Year 11 students have been sent a copy of the exam roster. Year 11 subjects with an exam include: General Maths, Maths Methods A and B, Spanish, Japanese, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Psychology, Nutrition, English Literary Studies, Modern History and Legal Studies.
Meet GGHS Family
Name - Corina Ramsay
Position - Student Services - The Hub
Education (school)- Completed year 12 at Renmark High School passing Matric with Glandular fever!
Education (tertiary) – DAA Certificate in General Dental Nursing, progressing to Oral Surgical Nurse, Diploma in Massage Therapy, Early Childhood Certificate 3 in Education and Care.
Interest/Hobbies –Gardening, animal/reptile care, Music, art and craft, fishing and camping, travelling and socialising.
Favourite Drink – Water and iced coffee but Socialising -Jim Beam and coke
Favourite Book - The Diary of Jack the Ripper.
Favourite Movies – oooh so many grew up with a dad who was a white knight at the drive-in
Overseas Travel – New York and Los Angeles with more to come.
If I could go to dinner with anyone - Robin Williams.
Proudest Accomplishment – Jumping out of a plane.
Senior School
Year 10
Program ID
In Term 2 Program ID continues with a career immersion focus, with more lesson time given to exploring pathway options for students through lesson-based activities and the DFE careers portal. This is an excellent resource for senior school students as they prepare for Year 11 and 12 and potentially studying VET at GGHS.
It is important for students to attend these lessons and arrive to school on time at the start of each day. Grove time is used to share important information with students and participate in our week-to-week challenges.
Grove Time Quiz – Winner
In term 1 our students took part in a weekly quiz to generate a bit of friendly competition between our different Groves. Each week the quiz was sent out to the Grove teachers and points earnt with correct answers. Congratulations to 1007 who ran out comfortable winners and will now enjoy a well-earned pizza party.
Termly Assembly
In week 3 we held our termly achievement assembly and whilst we didn’t have GPA data for this assembly, we did celebrate students who had accrued lots of positive behaviour points so far this year.
Points are awarded when students demonstrate a behaviour linked to a school value in the classroom or in the yard. They can also be awarded for being on time and prepared for all lessons and anything positive that occurs in the classroom or around the school.
Congratulations to Jayden, Jake, Lana and Lucas who were the top points scorers in the year level.
First Nations News
Thank you to Mahayla, from our First Nations team, for sharing some of the great work happening with the students in Year 10. Mahayla shared artwork, see below, that the students have been working on and we were impressed with the different stories that these pictures tell.
Work Experience Preparation
Our Year 10 students will be participating in work experience in week 8 next term. Forms for this were sent out at the end of 2024 and again at the start of this term. The deadline for organising a placement has passed, however students can still submit their forms.
No formal lessons will be provided at school during work experience week. Those students who are not able to find a placement, will be expected to attend school for one day in week 8 and get started with a virtual work experience program. This involves a series of tasks that can be done independently and at home for the remainder of the week.
We encourage all students and families to organise a placement as this is a worthwhile experience and students often secure part time jobs from their placement.
Year 11
The year 11s have jumped into term 2 full steam ahead. They have been busy engaging in many hands on and community linked experiences such as the Flinders University assessment centre, The careers expo, outdoor education camps, VET courses, legal studies excursions, catering, fundraising and much more.Each week they compete in the weekly grove quiz and take part in the ongoing mascot challenge building a competitive team culture amongst the groves. Our favourite time of the week is when we get to celebrate student's birthdays with them in the mornings!
This term we have students taking part in 'Consent and the Law' workshops run by external provider 'In Your Skin' and later in the term we have the MFS coming in to run a Road Awareness Program for the year 11s as many of them start to get their driver's licence.
Middle School
A day in the life of a Middle Schooler at GGHS – Jamie's Story
There’s more to school than just subjects—there’s community, challenge, and creativity too.
The day starts in Grove, where Jamie’s class runs a circle—a key part of our school’s restorative practices journey. Each student shares one thing they’re looking forward to and one goal for the week. It’s a calm and respectful way to check in, strengthen relationships, and reinforce routines that support Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL). The circle reminds everyone that learning happens best when we feel safe, seen, and ready to contribute.
Later in Global Perspectives, Jamie dives into a poetry unit set in Shogun Japan. Today’s focus is on haiku—short poems that capture stillness, nature, and deep thought. Jamie drafts a haiku about a falling leaf and reflects on how such a small form of writing can carry big meaning. It’s a great opportunity to practice one of our GGHS learner dispositions, being reflective—thinking not just about the content, but about how we express ideas and learn from history.
In the afternoon, Jamie heads into Maths, where the class is using the flexible furniture in the Middle School building to solve a geometry challenge. With whiteboard-topped tables, students sketch angles, calculate perimeters, and diagram their thinking right on the desks. Jamie works with a small team to solve a puzzle involving shapes and space—and even volunteers to explain their thinking to the class. That’s where the school value of integrity shines through: doing the right thing by sharing ideas honestly and helping others learn.
By the final bell, Jamie has shared in a circle, crafted poetry, solved a maths mystery, and practiced both independence and collaboration. Not every answer was perfect—but the effort, mindset, and reflection were spot on.
Middle School is full of meaningful moments—whether in a circle, a poem, or a team maths challenge. With the right habits and support, students like Jamie are learning how to grow, connect, and thrive.
Kirsty Ujhelyi
Assistant Principal - Head of Middle School
Year 7 Camp: A Memorable Adventure at Woodhouse Activity Centre
The Year 7 camp to Woodhouse Activity Centre was a resounding success, filled with fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Students and staff alike enjoyed a range of exciting activities that fostered teamwork, resilience, and a sense of adventure.
Across the two days students participated in a range of activities hosted by Woodhouse Staff. Students embraced the challenge of geocaching and orienteering, using their problem-solving skills to navigate through the beautiful natural surroundings. The Big Tube Slide was a favourite among students, providing endless thrills and laughter. It was a fantastic way for everyone to let loose and enjoy the exhilarating rush of sliding down the giant tube. The laser skirmish activity brought out the competitive spirit in everyone. Students formed teams and strategised to outsmart their opponents in a fun and safe environment. It was a great way to build camaraderie and teamwork. Challenge Hill tested the students' physical and mental endurance. With a series of obstacles to overcome, students supported each other and celebrated their achievements together, fostering a strong sense of community and resilience.
The evenings were just as engaging, with the highlight being the Big Quiz hosted by Ms. Power. Students enjoyed testing their knowledge across various topics, and the quiz night was filled with laughter, friendly competition, and team spirit.
A special thank you goes out to the dedicated Mr Wilson and Mr Martin, the Grove Teachers and Peer Leaders who made this camp possible. Their support, guidance, and enthusiasm were instrumental in ensuring the camp's success and creating a positive experience for all involved.
The Year 7 camp was not just about the activities but also about building friendships, learning new skills, and creating lasting memories. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and we hope the students did too.
Kristy Power
Assistant Principal - Student Wellbeing and Year 7
Year 7 camp to Woodhouse Activity Centre
Middle School Celebration Assemblies
We are thrilled to share the outstanding achievements of our students across various year levels, recognising their dedication to embodying our school values. These awards highlight the positive behaviours and attitudes that contribute to our vibrant school community. For Term 1, these positive behaviours were recognised at individual year level assemblies, but we would like to publicly acknowledge these students:
YEAR 9 – Value Winners
Respect: Jake A & Andi C
Resilience: For all those students who requested a class change which couldn’t be accommodated and still just got on with it!
Pride: Ella J & Lily C
Equality: Jake G
Integrity: India Z & Emma K
YEAR 8 – Value Winners
Respect: Amelia Nottage
Resilience: Caleb C & Alia F
Pride: Tobias U
Equality: Stanley H
Integrity: Polina M
YEAR 7 – Individual Positive Behaviour Winners
These Year 7 students have been recognised for their exemplary positive behaviour, gathering the highest positive behaviour points across the cohort and setting a standard for others to follow.
- Charlie Z
- Andy K
- Isaac P
We are incredibly proud of all our students and their achievements. Their commitment to our school values is reflecting the positive and supportive environment we strive to create. Thank you for your continued support in nurturing these values at home.
Celebrating Year 8 - Leading the Way with Recognition!
This term, our year 8 students have been focused on celebrating not only their own efforts and achievements but also those of their peers. As part of our Positive Behaviour for Learning framework, we’ve been exploring ways to recognise each other for the wonderful things we do that shape the fabric of our school community. By shining a light on the behaviours we value, we help create a positive culture for everyone.
Our Positive Behaviour Chronicles allow teachers to acknowledge students who demonstrate our school’s values and dispositions, but we noticed something was missing. Our students didn’t have a way to celebrate each other!
Enter Mr Forbes, our Year 8 Leader, who created a Microsoft Forms link available to all Year 8 students via their Compass page. They can now quickly and easily nominate a peer for a Chronicle, which Mr Forbes personally shares the message with the nominated student. The response? He was overwhelmed with nominations pouring in from students!
Year 8 students are now leading the school in the number of Positive Behaviour Chronicles earned this term. What an incredible achievement by our young people!
To add to this, we’ve just launched our Year 8 Positive Behaviour Leaderboard in the Middle School building. Each week, one student from each Grove will be celebrated for their positive contribution to our school culture, and termly winners will enjoy a free lunch on us!
Stay tuned for the announcement of our winners in the next edition. Go Year 8!
Sarah West
Assistant Principal - School Culture and Year 8 Oversight
Year 9 Students Continue to Shine in Childcare Partnership
We’re thrilled to share the success of our ongoing partnership with NIDO Childcare Centre, where selected Year 9 students are currently participating in a unique and rewarding 9-week work experience program.
Now in its second term, this program continues to grow in strength following the highly successful involvement of our Term 1 students. The team at NIDO has been so impressed by the maturity and enthusiasm shown by our students that they were eager to continue the partnership into Term 2.
Before stepping into their roles, students must complete two online training courses, ensuring they are prepared and understand the responsibilities that come with working in an early childhood setting. Once on-site, they engage in a variety of meaningful activities — from reading books and playing educational games to supporting routines and building positive relationships with the young children in their care.
This experience is not only enriching for the children at NIDO, who benefit from extra attention, energy, and positive role models, but it is also deeply valuable for our students. They are developing real-world skills such as responsibility, communication, patience, and initiative, all within a supportive environment. Many discover a passion for working with children and gain insights into careers in early childhood education and care.
At the end of their placement, students will receive a certificate of participation — a valuable addition to their resume and a formal recognition of their commitment and effort.
We are incredibly proud of our students for representing our school so positively and thank NIDO Childcare Centre for their continued support and partnership.
Andy Doran
Year 9 Sub School Leader
Communications
Golden Grove is now on Insta!
Our Media and Marketing Officer, Jenny, has been working behind the scenes—with support from teacher Emily Harrison and some of our Student Leadership class members (who’ve been guiding us through the world of trends and hashtags!) to bring you something exciting...
The launch of our brand-new Instagram page!
In a previous newsletter, we asked our families which platforms they’d like to see our school on—and Instagram came out on top. We listened, and we delivered!
Our Instagram will be a space to celebrate the events, activities and achievements that make our school so amazing. It’s not just a copy of what you will see on Facebook so it’s definitely worth a follow. Let’s share the story of our school, one post at a time.
👉 Click the link below and join us on Instagram!
Discovery Centre
It’s been another big and exciting term in the Discovery Centre, filled with valuable learning experiences and community connections.
Students were fortunate to attend two wonderful Variety events – Zoo Day and Movie Day – both generously funded. At Zoo Day, students enjoyed a beautiful lunch and spent time with the animals, while Movie Day gave them the chance to enjoy Minecraft on the big screen. These experiences are not only fun but also deeply appreciated by staff, students, and families. We are incredibly thankful to Variety for their continued support of young people with disabilities.
Our senior students have started work experience at the Animal Welfare League, and it has been an absolute highlight! Students are learning how to care for animals in a hands-on environment – and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t love puppy cuddles every Monday? This opportunity, fully funded, has been both educational and heartwarming.
We’re also in the process of finalising enrolments for students to undertake a formal Certificate I in Horticulture. This nationally recognised and fully funded course will provide meaningful pathways into future employment, both within and beyond the disability sector.
Community access continues to be a key part of our weekly program, with students regularly visiting various parts of Adelaide. These outings allow them to practise and transfer their social and independent living skills in real-world settings.
Our senior students recently attended the Work Expo at the Adelaide Showgrounds, where they had the opportunity to explore a wide range of career pathways. The event featured informative presentations and interactive displays, giving students valuable insights into various industries and future employment options. It was a highly engaging and educational experience, and all students walked away with a greater understanding of the many opportunities available to them beyond school.
Our Outdoor Education students recently spent a fantastic day hiking at Morialta Conservation Park. Surrounded by stunning natural scenery, students challenged themselves physically while enjoying the fresh air and peaceful environment. They shared a beautiful lunch together, taking a well-earned break to relax and connect. Thankfully, the weather held up perfectly, making it an ideal day for outdoor learning and adventure.
Learning Group 5 has also been taking part in weekly swimming sessions at the Elizabeth Aquadome. These sessions have been invaluable in building confidence, physical skills, and water safety awareness.
Meanwhile, our Golden Graze program has had a very productive term, welcoming some special guests including Blair Boyer, Martin Westwell, and Rhiannon Pearce. We are looking forward to launching a sales opportunity soon so the broader school community can enjoy the amazing work of our students.
We’re incredibly proud of the growth and achievements we’ve seen this term and can’t wait to see what the next one brings!
Cherie Dawkins
Sport
On Thursday 15th May, our Year 9/10 boy's and girl's Touch Football teams participated in the State Finals at City Touch playing fields.
The boys played a very good brand of Touch Football but fell short in winning 3 of their 6 games by one Try in each game, finishing 3rd overall on the day. We are very positive about next year with 10 of the 14 boys currently in Year 9.
The wonderful outcome from the day was with our girls' team taking out the State title in a dominant performance.
The girls had resounding wins against St. Peter's Girls, Marryatville H.S., Seaview, Adelaide H.S., Pembroke College, Wilderness College and Sacred Heart College.
The terrific teamwork high level of skill and willingness to work for each other in carrying out our game plan in winning every game is to be commended.
A big congratulations also goes to Mrs. Lycett who coached the girls to their fabulous title win.
As coaches, we continue to be very proud of the efforts and achievements of every student involved in the program at Golden Grove High School.
Mr. Grandison and Mrs. Lycett
Touch Football Coaches
🏉✨ Golden Grove High School proudly participated in the annual SAASTA Power Cup carnival at Alberton Oval, proudly sponsored by the Port Adelaide (Yartapuulti) Football Club.
A massive congratulations to our student Kaitlyn, who's amazing guernsey design was selected to represent our Academy Parafield! The design was created during a special workshop led by our good friend and Aboriginal artist Scott Rathman, using the 2025 NAIDOC Week theme of The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy.
Well done to all our students who represented GGHS with pride, passion and respect!
🖤💛❤️
Last week, 14 of our amazing First Nations students from Years 7–11 took part in the annual North Eastern Nunga Tag Carnival at Avenues College!
It was a fantastic day of community, connection and culture, with students joining others from neighbouring schools for a tag rugby carnival and exploring over 15 stalls showcasing careers in job pathways, education, health and training.
We’re incredibly proud of how our students played, supported one another, and built strong connections with peers from across the region. Well done team! 💛🖤❤️
Thanks to Mr Ujhelyi, Lochie and Megan for supporting the crew throughout the day! #Northeastnungatag #GGHS #FirstNationsExcellence #StrongerTogether
Year 9/10 Knockout Football
Thursday 22 May, our year 9/10 boys played in round 1 of the state AFL knockout competition. We played Gleeson College and Banksia Park International High School. It was a great day for footy but unfortunately the results didn’t go our way.
Thank you to Callum Jaede for goal umpiring all the games. We also thank Kade, who was our field umpire for all three games, and to Luke, who joined as the other umpire in our final game.
Our best players for the day were Lachlan and Toby. A special mention to Max, who was our captain and showed great leadership. Well done to the entire playing group. We were particularly proud of how you represented our school. There were plenty of highlights on the day but it was hard to go past Toby’s mark against Banksia or Lachlan’s effort during both games.
Game 1
Golden Grove 3.1 (19) defeated by Gleeson College 12.13 (85)
Goals: Owen 1, Lachlan 1, Toby 1.
Game 2
Golden Grove 3.3 (21) defeated by Banksia Park International High School 10.15 (75)
Goals: Bailey 1, Eli 1, Max 1.
School Life
Anzac Day Assembly
Friday 2 May our school came together for a moving ANZAC Assembly, thoughtfully led by our Defence & First Nation students. We were honoured to welcome Squadron Leader Arun Bartlett from the Royal Australian Air Force and Leading Seaman Sergey Grynchuk from the Australian Navy Band as our special guests. Squadron Leader Bartlett addressed the school with a meaningful reflection on the importance of ANZAC Day, and Leading Seaman Grynchuk performed the Last Post and Rouse—an especially poignant moment in the ceremony.
It was a powerful tribute to the courage and sacrifice of our ANZACs. We’re incredibly proud of our students and school community for creating such a respectful and reflective event.
Lest we forget.
Flinders University
On Tuesday 8th April 20 year 11 students were given the opportunity to participate in the Flinders University Assessment Centre program.
The Assessment Centre is an alternative entry to University that utilises a series of challenges and selection activities to evaluate a student’s ability to succeed at university rather than relying on their ATAR. We wish the best of luck to these students who will soon find out which courses they are eligible to pursue.
Professional Learning
Deepening Cultural Understanding and Confidence
On our recent Student Free Day, the entire GGHS staff engaged in a powerful and transformative professional learning experience focused on deepening our understanding of First Nations histories, cultures, and perspectives. We were guided through a reflective and eye-opening journey designed to help teachers approach the teaching of First Nations content with confidence, authenticity, and cultural sensitivity.
The day began with a focus on Our Cultures, where staff explored identity and the ways our own cultural backgrounds influence how we understand the world. A hands-on Culture and Identity activity offered a powerful opportunity for non-Indigenous staff to step into different perspectives—sparking deep reflection and discussion.
We then moved into Our History, examining the worldview of British colonisers and the motives behind policies that resulted in slavery, segregation, and wage theft. Through first-hand accounts and historical analysis, staff gained insight into how these actions created intergenerational trauma that continues to affect First Nations communities today.
In the third session, we explored The Wound—a metaphor for the ongoing impacts of colonisation. This was a challenging but essential part of the day. The session created a safe, non-judgmental space to engage with difficult truths, supported by stories from First Nations people. Importantly, the message was one of hope: acknowledging that while the wound is real, healing is possible, and we all have a role to play.
We concluded with My Response and Why Me?, focusing on practical ways teachers can bring First Nations perspectives into their classrooms. Staff explored real examples of how schools across Australia are using the Five Key Ideas, and were introduced to curriculum resources designed to support this work. The session emphasised that every teacher has the power to make a meaningful difference.
This full-day training was interactive, reflective, and deeply impactful. With videos, group discussions, hands-on activities, and practical tools, it provided not just knowledge, but also the inspiration and confidence needed to take action. Staff left the day feeling equipped to contribute to a more inclusive, honest, and culturally responsive learning environment.
We are proud to have dedicated this time to such important work. This experience marks a significant step forward in our school’s commitment to reconciliation and cultural understanding—and we look forward to seeing the ways it will enrich the learning of all students at GGHS.
Kirsty Ujhelyi
Assistant Principal - Head of High Quality Teaching and Learning
Old Scholars Association
We are on the look out for more alumni to join our Old Scholars Association!
If you are an ex student, or know of someone who attended our school, please share the link below so we can maintain a connection and share exciting opportunities available to support our school and celebrate with old friends at reunion events.
Our reunion celebration night this year will be for the classes of 1995, 2005 and 2015. The reunion event will take place in Term 3, stay tuned for more details!
Download The Compass App!
Have you downloaded the Compass app yet?
Easily accessible from your app store, the Compass parent portal app is the ultimate tool for parents and caregivers. It connects you directly to your child's learning, assessment and timetable. This is also where you can read all about the positive behaviour Chronicles their teachers have awarded them. It is also a useful portal to check our calendar, report on any absences or communicate with your child's teachers.
Using the app you can stay in the loop as we will often send push notifications to your phone for daily updates and reminders.
