It has been an amazing last few weeks in the Girls’ Junior School! In my role, it is such a privilege to watch our students engage in the wide range of co-curricular opportunities on offer, each experience helping them grow in ways that reflect the Tintern Compass values: commitment, integrity, independence, compassion, fulfillment, respect, confidence, and responsibility.
These values come to life in the most wonderful ways. For example, our Year 5 students, who showed remarkable commitment and courage as they tackled the waves during their surf camp last week or our Year 6 girls, who quite literally soared as they took the controls of an aeroplane this week at their flight excursion, experiencing independence and confidence in a way they’ll never forget!
Our younger learners have been busy too. Preps marvelled at the wonders of marine life during their visit to the aquarium, while Year 1 students got hands-on with tools, carefully crafting their wooden designs with respect for both their materials and the process. Year 2 students embraced responsibility and teamwork in their STEAM activities, where they are currently collaborating with their special guests to solve challenges and create.
In Year 4, students delved into the forces of nature through their natural disasters’ incursion, learning with compassion about the impacts on communities and our Year 3 students are busily preparing a STEAM project to present in the last week of school. Meanwhile, our Years 3–6 students have been finding fulfillment and joy in dance classes preparing for our End of Year Speech Night, embracing the challenge of tricky choreography.
And who could forget the excitement of our Prep – Year 2 Athletics Carnival? It was a celebration of energy, enthusiasm, and respect for one another, as students cheered on their peers. Similarly, the Junior Brass and Woodwind Concert was a shining example of commitment and confidence, as our musicians shared their hard work and talent with an appreciative audience.
These co-curricular activities are so much more than just ‘extras.’ They’re an essential part of a Tintern education. They inspire curiosity, foster relationships, and help each child discover their strengths and passions. Whether they’re building, creating, performing, or simply trying something new, our students are learning valuable lessons about themselves and the world around them.
As we reflect on these last few weeks, I wish to say a heartfelt thank you. To our teachers, who go above and beyond to create these incredible opportunities; to our families, for your support and encouragement; and most of all, to our students, who bring such enthusiasm and energy to everything they do. Tintern truly is a special place, and it is a joy to see how our shared commitment to these experiences helps shape confident, compassionate, and fulfilled young people. Thank you for being part of this journey with us.
Grandparents’ and Special Friends’ Day was held on Monday 25 November. Despite the drizzly rain the over 200 in attendance had a wonderful day being guided to activities by their student host. Read the full report and view the images
Allison Prandolini | Head of Girls’ Junior School
