​This week our girls in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 have undertaken the National Assessment Program testing in Literacy And Numeracy (NAPLAN). At this time of year there is often media coverage of debate about the value of such tests and whether they are counterproductive for students, causing unnecessary stress for insufficient gain.

Sunday is Mother’s Day and this week we have the opportunity to celebrate at school with our Mother’s Day Breakfasts and various other special events. This is a time of year to pause and pay homage to our mothers, step-mothers, grandmothers, substitute mothers and all those women who have mothered us.

​I have enjoyed catching up with families at Learning Conferences across the School over the last 10 days. These meetings provide an excellent opportunity for parents and teachers to get to know the girls better as learners and I hope you have found them productive.

I was delighted to see the spirit of support and camaraderie at the Senior School Athletics Sports on Tuesday, which was testimony to the positive culture we have at Lowther Hall. Girls encouraged each other, cheered for each other and reminded each other to stay positive across the whole day.

It was delightful to welcome everyone back to Term 2 this week. I have enjoyed hearing from many girls about their adventures during the holidays and comparing notes with some students who, like me, took the opportunity to see some movies.

On Tuesday 20 March we held our inaugural Sampford House Blessing of the Animals, where we prayed for the animals of the world and remembered God’s call to care for and protect them. We also blessed our pets and gave thanks for all that they mean to us, and the joy they bring to our families. In addition to the girls of Sampford House and their parents, over 30 excited dogs and 4 very brave cats attended, and the Mansion Lawn was a scene of laughter and smiles as people met and introduced their pets to those gathered. Thank you very much to all who attended, and I hope everyone enjoyed gathering together and celebrating our pets.

​It was wonderful to celebrate International Women’s Day last week in a variety of ways. Lowther Hall was well represented at the Moonee Valley International Women’s Day Breakfast where Year 12 student...

​Thank you to all the parents who attended our annual Parent Welcome Evening, particularly those new to the School; it was lovely to see you all there.

​The girls in Years 2 to 6 are “kicking goals” this week as their new soccer goals for the grassed area have arrived. Being physically active not only has numerous health benefits but also leads to better academic outcomes.

​The temporary wall in Raymond House was removed today revealing the building works that have been happening over the last few weeks. Soon the girls will have a new space to enjoy for their Music classes and our specialist services of Speech Pathology, Psychology and Learning Support will be moving into their new offices.