Over 500 Year 12 students graduated from Haileybury Girls College, Haileybury College and Haileybury Pangea across the past week. The outstanding conduct of the students reflected the strong, positive values of the Haileybury community.
As we enter Term 4, there is a sense of energy across Haileybury City. The days are growing longer, the blossoms are emerging throughout Flagstaff Gardens, and our campus is entering a season of culmination and celebration.
Throughout the term, we will mark significant milestones including Year 3 Leaders Day, Year 4 Graduation and Year 8 Graduation. For many students, examinations and assessment tasks will also provide an opportunity to demonstrate the learning, knowledge and understanding they have developed throughout the year.
These occasions remind us that a great education is about more than academic achievement alone. The 2025 World Economic Forum Future of Jobs report identifies analytical thinking, resilience, adaptability, leadership and creative thinking as among the most important skills for the future. While these capabilities will help our students thrive in an increasingly complex world, they are most powerful when coupled with empathy, integrity, courage and kindness.
At Haileybury City, we believe the head and the heart must work together. We want our students to think deeply and act compassionately, to solve problems creatively while leading with integrity, and to pursue excellence while remaining connected to others. These are the qualities we cultivate every day through learning, service, leadership and community.
As the gardens surrounding our campus come into bloom, they remind us that growth is the result of many small daily efforts. The milestones we celebrate this term are visible signs of young people flourishing in both knowledge and character.
The ELC children have been exploring fairy tales and character roles, extending this learning into the Physical Education program through an obstacle course inspired by The Three Little Pigs.
At the beginning of the course, the children worked together to build a pig’s house using straw, paddle pop sticks and LEGO pieces as bricks. They shared ideas, explored different materials and discovered how to make their houses stand strong. Combining storytelling, movement and construction supported coordination, teamwork and problem-solving.
This engaging experience brought the familiar story vividly to life, allowing children to step into the characters’ world and work together to build their own fairy tale creations.
Our ELC was filled with colour, creativity and excitement as the children celebrated Crazy Hair Disco Day. With wonderfully imaginative hairstyles, they showcased their creativity, learnt new dance moves and danced the day away with their peers.
Through music and movement, children explored rhythm and coordination, built confidence and enjoyed connecting with one another. The celebration encouraged self-expression and a sense of belonging, with laughter and smiles filling the ELC as everyone joined in the fun.
Thank you to our families for helping make this celebration so special with your creative hairstyles and enthusiasm.
Students relished the opportunities to celebrate the end of Term 3 by dancing the afternoon away at the annual Junior School Disco. Colourful costumes and vibrant accessories graced our students as we sang and danced to our favourite songs. Despite Mrs Spanos’ attempt, it wasn’t Taylor Swift, Katy Perry or Bruno Mars who proved to be the greatest hit of the hour. No, it was none other than ‘Home Among the Gum Trees’ and ‘Dinky Di Aussie’ which were songs taught to our students by our wonderful Music teacher, Mrs Schmidli.
The smiles on the students’ faces shone as they made their way back to City Campus following the Term 3 break. Thank you to our families for your work in smoothly transitioning back to school routines. In Term 4, Students are required to wear their full summer uniform, including white wide-brimmed hat or magenta cap to and from school.
Additionally, students are required to wear their black hat when going outside to play. Term 4 is filled with exciting events, assemblies, swimming, Up Day and much more. We encourage all families to keep an eye on the Key Dates.
In Week 2, Haileybury City were excited to welcome Year 3 students from all four of Melbourne’s Haileybury Campuses for the annual Future Leaders Day. The day, aimed at enhancing students’ understanding of leadership and building their capacity to show leadership qualities, involved hearing from our Middle School Captains and Old Haileyburians about what they believe makes a strong leader.
Students were then taken through a dance incursion run by Kinect Performing Arts before building their communication and teamwork skills through a range of hands-on challenges. Not only was this a wonderful opportunity for our students to prepare for their leadership roles in 2027, but one to strengthen their connections with their cross-campus peers.
On Friday, 16 October, we welcomed our Year 12 cohort back to the Middle School as part of the City Campus Back to Day celebrations. The occasion gave our graduating students an opportunity to revisit an important chapter in their Haileybury journey and reconnect with the teachers, spaces and experiences that helped shape them.
Year 12 families joined their young people for breakfast on the Middle School terrace, marking their final parent engagement at the City Campus. Afterwards, Year 8 students joined the Year 12 boys and girls for an assembly celebrating their growth from Middle School students to graduating young adults. A highlight was the rousing speeches delivered by Year 12 students Henry and Alessia . The event concluded with an entertaining game of ‘Are You Smarter Than a 7th Grader?’ in which Year 7 and Year 12 students battled it out to see who had the stronger understanding of Haileybury’s Year 7 curriculum. Filled with reflection, connection and laughter, the morning gave the Year 12 students an opportunity to share memories and consider how far they had come.
For our current Middle School students, hearing from those nearing the end of their schooling offered a powerful reminder of how much growth lies ahead and the possibilities their own Haileybury journeys hold.
Creativity, enthusiasm and House spirit were on full display during the Middle School House Arts event. The day began with massed singing, as each House developed its collective voice while learning the uplifting track ‘This Is Me’ from The Greatest Showman. Students then selected a creative pathway (dance, art or drama)and worked together to prepare and present their contributions to Middle School students and staff.
Across the event, students embraced the opportunity to perform, collaborate and step beyond their comfort zones. While the quality of the artistic work was impressive, the day was equally memorable for the encouragement students offered one another and the energy they brought to their Houses.
House Arts provides an important opportunity for students to explore their interests, express themselves and contribute to something larger than themselves. Congratulations to all students for the positive way they participated.
Congratulations to Year 7 students Lucas and Bodhi, and Year 8 student Clayton, whose investigations achieved High Distinctions in the Maths Talent Quest, and who were selected to represent Victoria in the National Maths Talent Quest judging.
Lucas and Bodhi investigated the question, ‘What global community trends are reflected in our neighbourhood?’, while Clayton explored ‘Normalising the Ski Resorts Run Rankings.’ From a field of 417 entries, their projects were among just 18 outstanding Victorian investigations selected for national judging.
This achievement reflects the students’ curiosity, mathematical thinking and sustained commitment to their investigations. Their thoughtful discussions and diligent work were evident throughout the lunchtime sessions as they developed their projects. It is wonderful to see their excellence recognised at the national level.
Our Years 7 and 8 students begin their Semester 2 Examinations on Thursday, 5 November. The examination process provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, understanding and skills, while also developing the habits required for future academic success.
Students have been encouraged to begin their revision early, establish a manageable study schedule and use active strategies such as practice questions, quizzes, flashcards and mind maps. Together, revision materials, in-class preparation and additional guidance are helping students become more confident and independent learners.
Exam Helpdesk sessions begin on Monday, 26 October and will be held before school and at lunchtime. These sessions provide a dedicated environment in which students can study and seek assistance directly from teachers. Preparing for and completing examinations is a skill in itself. Through these experiences, students are identifying the strategies that work best for them while developing organisation, self-motivation and resilience.
Catherine McNamara
Head of City
We hope everyone had a fantastic September holiday break. Whether you stayed home and enjoyed some well-deserved downtime with family or managed to get away and explore, we hope you came back feeling refreshed and ready for a big Term 4.
We are so excited to celebrate World Teachers’ Day on 30 October with our amazing staff.
Our teachers do such an incredible job supporting, inspiring and caring for our children, and we are grateful to have such a wonderful team as part of our school community. We can’t wait to celebrate them.
Up Day is happening on 24 November, with the SHUS opening its doors. We are putting a special call-out to our Junior School and ELC families. If your children have outgrown uniforms or other items, we would love you to consider donating or selling them. We are particularly low on the smaller sizes, so every contribution will make a big difference.
We hope everyone has an amazing Term 4. We have plenty happening and lots to look forward to.
Michelle White and Andrea Livingston
HPF City Co- Presidents
At Haileybury Rendall School, we believe that every student matters every day, and that education is about far more than what happens in the classroom. It is about developing a deep understanding of the world around us, respecting the stories and cultures that shape our community and recognising the important role each of us plays in creating a more inclusive future.
The unveiling of Mangrove Connections, a collaborative student mural, is a wonderful reflection of these values. Celebrating reconciliation, connection to country and the strength we find in working together, this project demonstrates what can be achieved when students, staff and community come together with a shared purpose.
The journey began on 27 May, when students from our Reconciliation Action Committee, led by Mr Anthony Barker, and our VET Tourism class, led by Mr Ben Johns, participated in a cultural learning experience at East Point with Larrakia Elder Trent Lee. Through learning about the significance of Larrakia Country and participating in traditional activities, including spear throwing and fire making, students gained a deeper appreciation of Larrakia culture and the enduring connection of Larrakia people to land and sea.
These experiences provided the inspiration for what followed. Returning to school, students worked collaboratively to develop a mural design inspired by the stories, landscape and coastline of East Point. With our Head of Visual Arts, Ms Polly, guiding the creative process, individual ideas and contributions were brought together through a shared painting experience to create the finished artwork.
The mangrove was chosen as a particularly meaningful symbol. Mangrove ecosystems are made up of interconnected elements, each contributing to the strength, health and wellbeing of the whole. In much the same way, reconciliation calls on all of us to listen, learn, respect different perspectives and work together towards a stronger future.
This message resonates strongly with Haileybury Rendall School's All In philosophy. At HRS, we want every student to feel a genuine sense of belonging, to understand the value of their contribution and to recognise that they have a role to play in shaping our community. Mangrove Connections brings this philosophy to life, reminding us that our differences strengthen us and that connection grows when we learn from one another.
The unveiling is also the beginning of an exciting vision for this space. In the years ahead, we intend to add two painted pillars annually, gradually creating an evolving outdoor gallery that celebrates reconciliation, connection to country, diversity and inclusion. This will become a lasting and visible expression of our commitment to learning, respect and belonging.
I extend my sincere thanks to Trent Lee, our dedicated staff and, most importantly, the students whose creativity, collaboration and willingness to learn have made this project possible. Their work reminds us that reconciliation is not simply a conversation or a single event; it is an ongoing commitment demonstrated through our actions, relationships and everyday choices.
Mangrove Connections is more than a mural. It is a celebration of our shared responsibility to listen, learn and grow together, and a powerful reminder that when we are all in, we can create something that is greater than the sum of its parts.
Andrew McGregor
Principal, Haileybury Rendall School
Over the break, several of our Year 8 students had the opportunity to travel overseas as part of cultural tours to France, China and Japan. These experiences allowed students to immerse themselves in different languages, traditions and histories, while also building confidence and independence beyond the classroom. We were proud of the way our students embraced these opportunities and represented Haileybury so positively throughout their travels.
It is my pleasure to invite Edrington families to our Celebration of Excellence on Tuesday, 1 December at 7.00 pm in Aikman Hall Keysborough. Refreshments will be served in the Wings Cafe and Quad from 6.00 pm where we can come together as a community. The evening will be a celebration of a wonderful year and an acknowledgment of excellence and achievement.
Creative expression is an essential part of early childhood development, providing children with meaningful opportunities to explore, communicate and understand the world around them. Through drawing, painting, music, movement, construction, dramatic play and other creative experiences, children can express their thoughts, ideas, emotions and experiences in ways that may not always be possible through words.
Creative experiences support children’s progress across many developmental domains. As children experiment with different materials and techniques, they develop fine motor skills, coordination, concentration, problem-solving abilities and confidence. Creative expression also encourages children to make choices, develop independence, and explore their own ideas and interests.
For educators, it is important to value the creative process rather than focusing solely on the finished product. Allowing children the freedom to experiment, make mistakes and try new approaches supports curiosity, resilience and a positive attitude towards learning. Open-ended experiences also allow every child to participate in their own unique way, recognising and celebrating individual strengths and perspectives.
Most importantly, creative expression gives children a voice. It builds confidence, encourages imagination, and strengthens their ability to communicate and connect with others. By providing rich and varied creative opportunities, educators foster children’s creativity and support skills that will benefit them throughout their learning journey.
Our Year 4 students will be involved in the Sex Education Australia (SEA) Living and Growing program this term to ensure that our students have access to accurate and age-appropriate information about body safety, anatomy, reproduction and puberty. Over three weeks our students will be learning:
Week 1: Our bodies - how to look after ourselves
• learn the proper names for reproductive body parts
• learn about body safety
• identify trusted adults students can go to for support
Week 2: Where did I come from? My family and your family
• discuss family difference and what it means to be in a family
• simple explanation of conception
• how the baby develops during a pregnancy and how the baby is born
Week 3: Growing and changing
• learn how humans grow and change throughout the human life cycle
• discuss individual difference and the importance of respect and being kind to others
• discuss key messages about consent
• introduction to puberty
It has been wonderful to welcome students back for Term 4. There has been a real sense of energy and purpose around the Middle School, with students quickly settling into routines and embracing opportunities.
One of the highlights of the first weeks of term was the Year 7 excursion to Melbourne Zoo. The day gave students the chance to connect their learning to real-world experiences while exploring wildlife from around the globe. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn outside the classroom and spend time together as a year level.
We also celebrate the achievements of our students in E-Sports, particularly in the Just Dance and Mario Kart competitions. Their teamwork, commitment and sportsmanship have been outstanding, and it has been pleasing to see students representing the School so positively in these growing competitive arenas. An especially big congratulations goes to Yiyi in Year 6 who has made it through to Nationals in the Just Dance competition.
Jeanette Rawlings
Head of Edrington (Berwick)
Hello Edrington. Once again, our amazing community came together to hold our annual Father’s Day stall. We hope all the dads and carers had an amazing Father’s Day and loved the gifts the children very carefully chose for you all. They take their gift choosing responsibilities very seriously. Thank you to all our amazing volunteers who helped set up and run the stall. We make a great team.
Trivia Night 2026 is coming. Click the link to secure tickets for your team. There will be trivia, games, laughs and great company is guaranteed.
Book here: https://www.trybooking.com/DPFZL
Every Wednesday you will find Jenelle and Amphil at the SHUS from 8.30am to 11.00am. The SHUS is always looking for an extra hand, so if you have an hour to spare on a Wednesday to give Amphil and Jenelle a hand in the shop please contact them shus-berwick@haileybury.vic.edu.au
Kerry Ilic
HPFE President
Rain, cold and a sold-out field did not stop more than 130 members of the Haileybury community from teeing off at the 2026 OHA Golf Day.
A huge thank you to everyone who braved the elements and helped make the day such a success.
Congratulations to Haileybury staff member Kevin O’Connor, who claimed the Hattam-Metherall Trophy, with Bijan Heydarpour (OH 2023) from Haileybury Rendall School finishing runner-up.
Congratulations also to our winning group: Andrew Abbott (OH 2003), Nick Malone (OH 2003), Shannon Cramer (OH 2003), and Matt Patrick (OH 2003).
A special shout-out to our other winners:
This year’s event also marked a special milestone, with the first father-and-daughter pair of Haileyburians playing together. David Lappage (OH 1990 and current staff member) and his daughter, Imogen Lappage (OH 2023), took to the course side by side for the first time.
We are incredibly grateful to our generous supporters including Mercedes-Benz Berwick, Kaiju Beer, Grassports, KPA Lawyers, The Baix, Two Bays Brewing, Pfeiffer Wines, Wolf of the Willows and GOLFSelect for helping make the event possible.
Bringing the Haileybury community together extends well beyond the golf course
The OHA Legal Industry Networking Event at the Essoign Club was a fantastic opportunity for Old Haileyburians from across the legal profession to reconnect, meet fellow alumni and share experiences and insights.
The evening was a wonderful reminder of the strength of the OHA network and the opportunities that come from staying connected.
A massive thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the event such a success.
Coming up next: Stay tuned for our next OHA Industry Networking Event, which will bring together Haileyburians working in allied health.
From awards and events to programs and services, the OHA offers plenty of opportunities to stay involved in the Haileybury community.
Visit the OHA website to explore what’s available or contact the OHA Office at stayconnected@haileybury.com.au or call 9904 6615.
Once a Haileyburian, always a Haileyburian.
Kylie Phillips
Development Office Operations Lead
Term 4 is a time of celebration for the Haileybury Pangea community, with several opportunities to connect online and in person. Highlights include the Year 12 Farewell Assembly and the Pangea Year 12 Graduation and Valedictory, recognising the achievements of our graduating students. Later in the term, students will gather at the Keysborough campus for the Year 12 Leadership Day on 11 November and the Years 7 and 8 Start-Up Pitch and Social Justice Event on 12 November. The year concludes with the Haileybury Pangea Celebration of Excellence streaming online on 4 December, and the Haileybury Carols event in Melbourne on 9 December. We look forward to celebrating with our students and families.
We are delighted to celebrate the achievements of several Haileybury Pangea students who have recently excelled in a diverse range of pursuits. Year 10 student Albert achieved exceptional success in the 2026 Australian Mathematics Competition and was shortlisted for one of the Australian Mathematics Trust’s highest honours after achieving a perfect score. Year 6 student Albert was recognised with the Most Valuable Player Award at the APS eSports Competition, where exceptional sportsmanship, positivity and leadership saw Albert praised by staff from across participating schools. Year 12 student Emma received a Community Achievement Award from the Girls Programming Network following an outstanding presentation at the PyCon Student Showcase, highlighting a growing contribution to the technology community.
Over the September holidays, Haileybury students delivered an outstanding performance at the Horseland Australian Interschool Championships, with the School achieving three National Champions in Equestrian. Among the Haileybury Pangea students participating were Maddison (Year 6), who was crowned National Champion in the 80cm Primary Show Jumping event; Annabelle (4th in Open Medium Dressage); and Cameron (Coco) (6th in 100cm Showjumping). We congratulate the entire Haileybury Equestrian team and staff for these fantastic results.
Joanna Baker
Head of Campus
Haileybury class of 2026 has officially graduated.
It is always an exciting and very emotional time of the year for our Year 12s as they gather for a series of formal and informal events to celebrate the culmination of their schooling.
Friday, 16 October was the last time the entire cohort was together as they attended their final senior school assembly. Afterwards, they enjoyed food trucks provided by the Old Haileyburians Association and then returned to Aikman Hall to present their own Year 12 Review which was a wonderful combination of onstage performances and amusing video anecdotes and farewells.
On Monday, 19 October (Haileybury Girls College) and Tuesday, 20 October (Haileybury College) were fondly farewelled by their Houses, led by their Heads of House, in gatherings that are always very moving.
The Haileybury College assembly, after the awarding of the House shields, was an opportunity for their outstanding School Captain, George, to deliver his final speech to Years 10–12, with the Haileybury Girls College School Captain, Isabelle, reducing her peers to tears in her emotional speech to the Senior School. The event ended with the ceremonial laying of the School Colour, a symbol of the end of the Year 12 cohort’s time at the School, ready to be unfurled by the incoming 2027 student leaders.
A highly enjoyable lunch, followed by the students hearing from nominated peers and staff, concluded the more informal part of the day.
The evening saw the students officially graduate, proudly walking across the stage to the applause of their teachers and loved ones who have been such a pivotal part of their academic journey. The Valedictory Dinner, held at Crown Palladium, was a fitting farewell to this outstanding group of students.
For the next few weeks, the students will be undertaking their final exams. We wish them all the best and thank the class of 2026 for their service to the School.
All students in Senior School have been engaging in examinations, and our Units 3 and 4 students will continue to sit exams in the coming weeks, so I encourage families to do all they can to support their children during this time.
While examinations will be a normal part of our students’ lives for the foreseeable future, VCE examinations can become all-consuming for young people in our care. A degree of encouragement from parents is always useful in helping students prepare for examinations; however, it is always important to balance this with the message that we will support them if things do not go as planned.
If you have any concerns about your child either during or post-examination period, please make sure that you contact their relevant Head of Pre-Senior or Head of House to discuss the support that Haileybury can offer.
Congratulations to Year 10 student Mehak , who has been named a finalist in the 2026 Student Poetry Competition. Mehak has been invited to attend Independent Schools Victoria’s Celebration of Student Poetry, an evening dedicated to recognising the talent, creativity and achievements of this year’s entrants, culminating in the announcement of the competition winners.
Congratulations to our incredible Year 10 student Lochie who was recently recognised through the Victorian Volunteer Awards. A finalist, Lochie was recognised for his significant contribution to SYN Media which he joined in 2024 at the age of 14 as a volunteer presenter, co-presenting The Hoist before becoming the Executive Producer of Amplify, SYN’s dedicated under-18's show. Lochie’s commitment to service reflects the generosity, initiative and community-minded spirit we value so highly at City. Well done, Lochie.
‘Saturdays at City’ has a certain ring to it. We have been impressed by the students undertaking Units 3 and 4 studies who attended a full or half day of practice examinations on Saturday, 17 October. We will host two further Saturday sessions, complete with invigilators, to provide students with valuable practice under timed examination conditions. We continue to be inspired by their diligence and commitment to their studies.
It has been an exciting end to the Debating season at Haileybury City, with three teams progressing through to the finals. Under the indefatigable coaching of Mr John Mavridis, our D Grade team of Year 9 students remained undefeated all season, progressing through the playoffs and into the octo finals. At the end of their first season, their future as debaters is certainly bright.
Our C Grade team of Aasha, Mehak, Tani, Alana and Amy, also undefeated, progressed through to the quarter finals where, in a close debate, they narrowly lost in split decision by the adjudicators. This places them in the top eight teams out of 500 across the state.
Our B Grade team of Ashwyn, Edward, Justin, Ruhaan and Krish have progressed through to the semi-finals, positioning them amongst four teams in the state. We wish them well as they continue their debating crusade.
Congratulations to Haileybury’s chess teams on an exceptional performance at the Interschool State Chess Finals.
Team 1 secured first place, earning the opportunity to represent Haileybury at the Australian Schools Teams Chess Championships in Canberra this December. Team 1 comprised Ryley, Kenny, Justin, Tiger and Jayden, while Team 2 was represented by Emily, Gautam, Alan, Evan and Damian.
A special congratulations to Year 7 student Justin, who competed on Board 1 and received the board prize as the tournament’s best-performing player.
This outstanding achievement reflects the skill, focus and teamwork demonstrated by all students involved. We congratulate both teams on their success and wish Team 1 the very best as they prepare to compete on the national stage.
The ADF Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Awards honour Years 10 and 12 students who demonstrate leadership, teamwork, community involvement, and values such as respect, doing one’s best and mateship. Established in 2006, they are coordinated by the Australian Defence Force and delivered through participating schools.
Congratulations to Lila, Year 12 and Tyson, Year 10 on receiving this award for 2026.
We are delighted to congratulate Anay, Anjan, Wisdom and Aaiyan on being named finalists in the John Locke Institute Global Essay Prize. The international competition challenges young people to think independently, develop their knowledge and present clear, persuasive arguments on demanding questions beyond the school curriculum. Entries are assessed by senior academics from leading universities, making finalist recognition an outstanding achievement. Special congratulations go to Anay, who received a Very High Commendation in Science and Technology, and Anjan , who received a High Commendation in Politics. These distinctions recognise the strength of their critical analysis, reasoning and written expression. We commend Anay, Anjan, Wisdom and Aaiyan for their intellectual curiosity, dedication and willingness to engage deeply with complex ideas. Their success is a wonderful achievement, and the School community is extremely proud of them.
It is with great pride that we recognise and celebrate the exceptional achievements of our Senior School students in the Australian Mathematics Competition, held in Term 3.
We especially acknowledge the outstanding success of the following students, who were awarded the prestigious Peter O’Halloran Award for achieving a perfect score, in addition to receiving a Prize:
Year 8
Anya
Year 10
Albert
Both students have thrived in learning environments that reflect their strengths, and we are delighted to celebrate their outstanding achievements.
We also recognise the outstanding achievements of the following students, whose results placed them among the top 0.3% and top 3% of competitors:
Prize Winner (top 0.3%)
Year 9
Aarin
Advait
Joshua
Kyle
Year 10
Jessica
Year 11
Xiyuan (Cici)
High Distinction (top 3%)
Year 9
Akein
Desal
Kenny Tran
Leon
Manuga
Nam
Ryan
Seyon
Xiaoshi
Year 10
Austen
Daksh
Jack
Jayden
Nathan
Sanjar
Year 11
Aadi
Adhyaan
William
Year 12
Muhammad
The 2026 Pre-Senior year has been filled with growth, adventure and self-discovery. Explore and Expeditions took Year 9 students from India and the Whitsundays to Vietnam and the Larapinta Trail, building courage, independence, cultural understanding and lasting friendships.
Thank you to the staff whose careful planning, professionalism and support made these opportunities possible.
The year concludes with the Annual Colour Run supporting The Smith Family, Pre-Senior Examinations, City CHASE 2026 and the Year 9 to Year 10 Transition Day on Friday, 13 November, which is an exciting milestone as students begin their Senior School journey.
Dr Nicholas Grigsby
Deputy Principal and Head of Senior Schools
As the official Melbourne school partner of the LA Rams, Haileybury is playing a leading role in growing Flag Football in schools and helping create a lasting legacy from the NFL’s historic visit to Australia. Through our ongoing partnership with the Rams, students have been introduced to the sport through coaching development, Come and Try opportunities and the recent LA Rams Flag Football Gala Day at our Brighton campus.
The Gala Day brought together 24 teams from APS and AGSV schools and highlighted the enormous potential of the sport, with students embracing the challenge of learning new skills while enjoying a fun and inclusive competitive environment.
Importantly, the partnership extends well beyond the Melbourne NFL game. In December, a group of Haileybury students will travel to Los Angeles, where they will experience world-class sporting environments including a visit to SoFi Stadium, while other students are pursuing American football pathway opportunities through specialist coaching with ProKick Australia. Together, these experiences are helping create genuine participation and performance pathways for Haileybury students while supporting the growth of Flag Football and American football in Australia.
While we are excited about creating new sporting opportunities for our students, the recent school holidays also provided another reminder of the extraordinary achievements of Haileybury students across an incredible range of sports.
Congratulations to Awen (Year 8 Newlands), a member of our First Badminton Team, who became a National Champion by winning the U17 Women’s Doubles title at the YONEX U13/U17 Australian National Individual Championships. Competing at U17 level while still in Year 8 makes the achievement particularly impressive and is a wonderful reward for Awen’s dedication to the sport.
It was also a fantastic holiday period for Thaadhie, who won both the Boys U14 Singles and Doubles titles at the J250 Victorian State Final Championship.
Thaadhie also won the U14 Melbourne Qualifier of the Orange Lion Sports Youth Tennis Series Global Elite Series, securing the opportunity to represent Australia in Shenzhen, China, in November. A terrific series of results and an exciting international opportunity ahead.
Another student reaching the top step of the podium was Isla (Brighton), who won gold at the AusTKD Australian National Championships to become an Australian National Champion. Becoming a national champion in any sport is an outstanding achievement and a wonderful reward for the commitment Isla has made to training and competition throughout the year.
Our Equestrian riders also produced an exceptional set of performances at the Horseland Australian Interschool Championships, bringing home three National Championship titles, with every Haileybury rider finishing inside the top six nationally.
Ethan (Year 7) was crowned National Champion in All Abilities Show Horse and Reserve Champion in All Abilities Dressage. Pearl (Year 11) won the EV95cm Eventing National Championship and placed third in the 105cm Combined Training, while Maddison (Year 6) became National Champion in the 80cm Primary Show Jumping.
There were also outstanding performances from Zara (Year 4), who finished fourth in Primary Novice Dressage, Annabelle (Year 10), who placed fourth in Open Medium Dressage, and Coco (Year 9), who secured a top six finish in 100cm Showjumping. These results represent one of the most successful national championship campaigns the Haileybury Equestrian program has ever enjoyed and are a credit to the commitment of our riders and their families.
Congratulations to all students on their outstanding achievements and for continuing to represent Haileybury with such distinction on the national stage.
In a fantastic result for Haileybury Water polo, Jacob (Y11), Cooper (Y11) and Darcy (Y10) all represented Victoria at the 17&U National State Championships. The Victorian team produced an outstanding tournament to reach the semi-finals before two incredibly close matches saw them finish fourth overall. A special congratulations to Jacob, who was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Goalkeeper, an exceptional achievement made even more impressive given he is a bottom-age athlete and will be eligible to represent Victoria again at 17&U level next year.
Matthew Dwyer
Head of Sport (One Haileybury)
As we enter Term 4, there is a sense of energy across Haileybury City. The days are growing longer, the blossoms are emerging throughout Flagstaff Gardens, and our campus is entering a season of culmination and celebration.
Throughout the term, we will mark significant milestones including Year 3 Leaders Day, Year 4 Graduation and Year 8 Graduation. For many students, examinations and assessment tasks will also provide an opportunity to demonstrate the learning, knowledge and understanding they have developed throughout the year.
These occasions remind us that a great education is about more than academic achievement alone. The 2025 World Economic Forum Future of Jobs report identifies analytical thinking, resilience, adaptability, leadership and creative thinking as among the most important skills for the future. While these capabilities will help our students thrive in an increasingly complex world, they are most powerful when coupled with empathy, integrity, courage and kindness.
At Haileybury City, we believe the head and the heart must work together. We want our students to think deeply and act compassionately, to solve problems creatively while leading with integrity, and to pursue excellence while remaining connected to others. These are the qualities we cultivate every day through learning, service, leadership and community.
As the gardens surrounding our campus come into bloom, they remind us that growth is the result of many small daily efforts. The milestones we celebrate this term are visible signs of young people flourishing in both knowledge and character.
The ELC children have been exploring fairy tales and character roles, extending this learning into the Physical Education program through an obstacle course inspired by The Three Little Pigs.
At the beginning of the course, the children worked together to build a pig’s house using straw, paddle pop sticks and LEGO pieces as bricks. They shared ideas, explored different materials and discovered how to make their houses stand strong. Combining storytelling, movement and construction supported coordination, teamwork and problem-solving.
This engaging experience brought the familiar story vividly to life, allowing children to step into the characters’ world and work together to build their own fairy tale creations.
Our ELC was filled with colour, creativity and excitement as the children celebrated Crazy Hair Disco Day. With wonderfully imaginative hairstyles, they showcased their creativity, learnt new dance moves and danced the day away with their peers.
Through music and movement, children explored rhythm and coordination, built confidence and enjoyed connecting with one another. The celebration encouraged self-expression and a sense of belonging, with laughter and smiles filling the ELC as everyone joined in the fun.
Thank you to our families for helping make this celebration so special with your creative hairstyles and enthusiasm.
Students relished the opportunities to celebrate the end of Term 3 by dancing the afternoon away at the annual Junior School Disco. Colourful costumes and vibrant accessories graced our students as we sang and danced to our favourite songs. Despite Mrs Spanos’ attempt, it wasn’t Taylor Swift, Katy Perry or Bruno Mars who proved to be the greatest hit of the hour. No, it was none other than ‘Home Among the Gum Trees’ and ‘Dinky Di Aussie’ which were songs taught to our students by our wonderful Music teacher, Mrs Schmidli.
The smiles on the students’ faces shone as they made their way back to City Campus following the Term 3 break. Thank you to our families for your work in smoothly transitioning back to school routines. In Term 4, Students are required to wear their full summer uniform, including white wide-brimmed hat or magenta cap to and from school.
Additionally, students are required to wear their black hat when going outside to play. Term 4 is filled with exciting events, assemblies, swimming, Up Day and much more. We encourage all families to keep an eye on the Key Dates.
In Week 2, Haileybury City were excited to welcome Year 3 students from all four of Melbourne’s Haileybury Campuses for the annual Future Leaders Day. The day, aimed at enhancing students’ understanding of leadership and building their capacity to show leadership qualities, involved hearing from our Middle School Captains and Old Haileyburians about what they believe makes a strong leader.
Students were then taken through a dance incursion run by Kinect Performing Arts before building their communication and teamwork skills through a range of hands-on challenges. Not only was this a wonderful opportunity for our students to prepare for their leadership roles in 2027, but one to strengthen their connections with their cross-campus peers.
On Friday, 16 October, we welcomed our Year 12 cohort back to the Middle School as part of the City Campus Back to Day celebrations. The occasion gave our graduating students an opportunity to revisit an important chapter in their Haileybury journey and reconnect with the teachers, spaces and experiences that helped shape them.
Year 12 families joined their young people for breakfast on the Middle School terrace, marking their final parent engagement at the City Campus. Afterwards, Year 8 students joined the Year 12 boys and girls for an assembly celebrating their growth from Middle School students to graduating young adults. A highlight was the rousing speeches delivered by Year 12 students Henry and Alessia . The event concluded with an entertaining game of ‘Are You Smarter Than a 7th Grader?’ in which Year 7 and Year 12 students battled it out to see who had the stronger understanding of Haileybury’s Year 7 curriculum. Filled with reflection, connection and laughter, the morning gave the Year 12 students an opportunity to share memories and consider how far they had come.
For our current Middle School students, hearing from those nearing the end of their schooling offered a powerful reminder of how much growth lies ahead and the possibilities their own Haileybury journeys hold.
Creativity, enthusiasm and House spirit were on full display during the Middle School House Arts event. The day began with massed singing, as each House developed its collective voice while learning the uplifting track ‘This Is Me’ from The Greatest Showman. Students then selected a creative pathway (dance, art or drama)and worked together to prepare and present their contributions to Middle School students and staff.
Across the event, students embraced the opportunity to perform, collaborate and step beyond their comfort zones. While the quality of the artistic work was impressive, the day was equally memorable for the encouragement students offered one another and the energy they brought to their Houses.
House Arts provides an important opportunity for students to explore their interests, express themselves and contribute to something larger than themselves. Congratulations to all students for the positive way they participated.
Congratulations to Year 7 students Lucas and Bodhi, and Year 8 student Clayton, whose investigations achieved High Distinctions in the Maths Talent Quest, and who were selected to represent Victoria in the National Maths Talent Quest judging.
Lucas and Bodhi investigated the question, ‘What global community trends are reflected in our neighbourhood?’, while Clayton explored ‘Normalising the Ski Resorts Run Rankings.’ From a field of 417 entries, their projects were among just 18 outstanding Victorian investigations selected for national judging.
This achievement reflects the students’ curiosity, mathematical thinking and sustained commitment to their investigations. Their thoughtful discussions and diligent work were evident throughout the lunchtime sessions as they developed their projects. It is wonderful to see their excellence recognised at the national level.
Our Years 7 and 8 students begin their Semester 2 Examinations on Thursday, 5 November. The examination process provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, understanding and skills, while also developing the habits required for future academic success.
Students have been encouraged to begin their revision early, establish a manageable study schedule and use active strategies such as practice questions, quizzes, flashcards and mind maps. Together, revision materials, in-class preparation and additional guidance are helping students become more confident and independent learners.
Exam Helpdesk sessions begin on Monday, 26 October and will be held before school and at lunchtime. These sessions provide a dedicated environment in which students can study and seek assistance directly from teachers. Preparing for and completing examinations is a skill in itself. Through these experiences, students are identifying the strategies that work best for them while developing organisation, self-motivation and resilience.
Catherine McNamara
Head of City
We hope everyone had a fantastic September holiday break. Whether you stayed home and enjoyed some well-deserved downtime with family or managed to get away and explore, we hope you came back feeling refreshed and ready for a big Term 4.
We are so excited to celebrate World Teachers’ Day on 30 October with our amazing staff.
Our teachers do such an incredible job supporting, inspiring and caring for our children, and we are grateful to have such a wonderful team as part of our school community. We can’t wait to celebrate them.
Up Day is happening on 24 November, with the SHUS opening its doors. We are putting a special call-out to our Junior School and ELC families. If your children have outgrown uniforms or other items, we would love you to consider donating or selling them. We are particularly low on the smaller sizes, so every contribution will make a big difference.
We hope everyone has an amazing Term 4. We have plenty happening and lots to look forward to.
Michelle White and Andrea Livingston
HPF City Co- Presidents
At Haileybury Rendall School, we believe that every student matters every day, and that education is about far more than what happens in the classroom. It is about developing a deep understanding of the world around us, respecting the stories and cultures that shape our community and recognising the important role each of us plays in creating a more inclusive future.
The unveiling of Mangrove Connections, a collaborative student mural, is a wonderful reflection of these values. Celebrating reconciliation, connection to country and the strength we find in working together, this project demonstrates what can be achieved when students, staff and community come together with a shared purpose.
The journey began on 27 May, when students from our Reconciliation Action Committee, led by Mr Anthony Barker, and our VET Tourism class, led by Mr Ben Johns, participated in a cultural learning experience at East Point with Larrakia Elder Trent Lee. Through learning about the significance of Larrakia Country and participating in traditional activities, including spear throwing and fire making, students gained a deeper appreciation of Larrakia culture and the enduring connection of Larrakia people to land and sea.
These experiences provided the inspiration for what followed. Returning to school, students worked collaboratively to develop a mural design inspired by the stories, landscape and coastline of East Point. With our Head of Visual Arts, Ms Polly, guiding the creative process, individual ideas and contributions were brought together through a shared painting experience to create the finished artwork.
The mangrove was chosen as a particularly meaningful symbol. Mangrove ecosystems are made up of interconnected elements, each contributing to the strength, health and wellbeing of the whole. In much the same way, reconciliation calls on all of us to listen, learn, respect different perspectives and work together towards a stronger future.
This message resonates strongly with Haileybury Rendall School's All In philosophy. At HRS, we want every student to feel a genuine sense of belonging, to understand the value of their contribution and to recognise that they have a role to play in shaping our community. Mangrove Connections brings this philosophy to life, reminding us that our differences strengthen us and that connection grows when we learn from one another.
The unveiling is also the beginning of an exciting vision for this space. In the years ahead, we intend to add two painted pillars annually, gradually creating an evolving outdoor gallery that celebrates reconciliation, connection to country, diversity and inclusion. This will become a lasting and visible expression of our commitment to learning, respect and belonging.
I extend my sincere thanks to Trent Lee, our dedicated staff and, most importantly, the students whose creativity, collaboration and willingness to learn have made this project possible. Their work reminds us that reconciliation is not simply a conversation or a single event; it is an ongoing commitment demonstrated through our actions, relationships and everyday choices.
Mangrove Connections is more than a mural. It is a celebration of our shared responsibility to listen, learn and grow together, and a powerful reminder that when we are all in, we can create something that is greater than the sum of its parts.
Andrew McGregor
Principal, Haileybury Rendall School
Over the break, several of our Year 8 students had the opportunity to travel overseas as part of cultural tours to France, China and Japan. These experiences allowed students to immerse themselves in different languages, traditions and histories, while also building confidence and independence beyond the classroom. We were proud of the way our students embraced these opportunities and represented Haileybury so positively throughout their travels.
It is my pleasure to invite Edrington families to our Celebration of Excellence on Tuesday, 1 December at 7.00 pm in Aikman Hall Keysborough. Refreshments will be served in the Wings Cafe and Quad from 6.00 pm where we can come together as a community. The evening will be a celebration of a wonderful year and an acknowledgment of excellence and achievement.
Creative expression is an essential part of early childhood development, providing children with meaningful opportunities to explore, communicate and understand the world around them. Through drawing, painting, music, movement, construction, dramatic play and other creative experiences, children can express their thoughts, ideas, emotions and experiences in ways that may not always be possible through words.
Creative experiences support children’s progress across many developmental domains. As children experiment with different materials and techniques, they develop fine motor skills, coordination, concentration, problem-solving abilities and confidence. Creative expression also encourages children to make choices, develop independence, and explore their own ideas and interests.
For educators, it is important to value the creative process rather than focusing solely on the finished product. Allowing children the freedom to experiment, make mistakes and try new approaches supports curiosity, resilience and a positive attitude towards learning. Open-ended experiences also allow every child to participate in their own unique way, recognising and celebrating individual strengths and perspectives.
Most importantly, creative expression gives children a voice. It builds confidence, encourages imagination, and strengthens their ability to communicate and connect with others. By providing rich and varied creative opportunities, educators foster children’s creativity and support skills that will benefit them throughout their learning journey.
Our Year 4 students will be involved in the Sex Education Australia (SEA) Living and Growing program this term to ensure that our students have access to accurate and age-appropriate information about body safety, anatomy, reproduction and puberty. Over three weeks our students will be learning:
Week 1: Our bodies - how to look after ourselves
• learn the proper names for reproductive body parts
• learn about body safety
• identify trusted adults students can go to for support
Week 2: Where did I come from? My family and your family
• discuss family difference and what it means to be in a family
• simple explanation of conception
• how the baby develops during a pregnancy and how the baby is born
Week 3: Growing and changing
• learn how humans grow and change throughout the human life cycle
• discuss individual difference and the importance of respect and being kind to others
• discuss key messages about consent
• introduction to puberty
It has been wonderful to welcome students back for Term 4. There has been a real sense of energy and purpose around the Middle School, with students quickly settling into routines and embracing opportunities.
One of the highlights of the first weeks of term was the Year 7 excursion to Melbourne Zoo. The day gave students the chance to connect their learning to real-world experiences while exploring wildlife from around the globe. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn outside the classroom and spend time together as a year level.
We also celebrate the achievements of our students in E-Sports, particularly in the Just Dance and Mario Kart competitions. Their teamwork, commitment and sportsmanship have been outstanding, and it has been pleasing to see students representing the School so positively in these growing competitive arenas. An especially big congratulations goes to Yiyi in Year 6 who has made it through to Nationals in the Just Dance competition.
Jeanette Rawlings
Head of Edrington (Berwick)
Hello Edrington. Once again, our amazing community came together to hold our annual Father’s Day stall. We hope all the dads and carers had an amazing Father’s Day and loved the gifts the children very carefully chose for you all. They take their gift choosing responsibilities very seriously. Thank you to all our amazing volunteers who helped set up and run the stall. We make a great team.
Trivia Night 2026 is coming. Click the link to secure tickets for your team. There will be trivia, games, laughs and great company is guaranteed.
Book here: https://www.trybooking.com/DPFZL
Every Wednesday you will find Jenelle and Amphil at the SHUS from 8.30am to 11.00am. The SHUS is always looking for an extra hand, so if you have an hour to spare on a Wednesday to give Amphil and Jenelle a hand in the shop please contact them shus-berwick@haileybury.vic.edu.au
Kerry Ilic
HPFE President
Rain, cold and a sold-out field did not stop more than 130 members of the Haileybury community from teeing off at the 2026 OHA Golf Day.
A huge thank you to everyone who braved the elements and helped make the day such a success.
Congratulations to Haileybury staff member Kevin O’Connor, who claimed the Hattam-Metherall Trophy, with Bijan Heydarpour (OH 2023) from Haileybury Rendall School finishing runner-up.
Congratulations also to our winning group: Andrew Abbott (OH 2003), Nick Malone (OH 2003), Shannon Cramer (OH 2003), and Matt Patrick (OH 2003).
A special shout-out to our other winners:
This year’s event also marked a special milestone, with the first father-and-daughter pair of Haileyburians playing together. David Lappage (OH 1990 and current staff member) and his daughter, Imogen Lappage (OH 2023), took to the course side by side for the first time.
We are incredibly grateful to our generous supporters including Mercedes-Benz Berwick, Kaiju Beer, Grassports, KPA Lawyers, The Baix, Two Bays Brewing, Pfeiffer Wines, Wolf of the Willows and GOLFSelect for helping make the event possible.
Bringing the Haileybury community together extends well beyond the golf course
The OHA Legal Industry Networking Event at the Essoign Club was a fantastic opportunity for Old Haileyburians from across the legal profession to reconnect, meet fellow alumni and share experiences and insights.
The evening was a wonderful reminder of the strength of the OHA network and the opportunities that come from staying connected.
A massive thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the event such a success.
Coming up next: Stay tuned for our next OHA Industry Networking Event, which will bring together Haileyburians working in allied health.
From awards and events to programs and services, the OHA offers plenty of opportunities to stay involved in the Haileybury community.
Visit the OHA website to explore what’s available or contact the OHA Office at stayconnected@haileybury.com.au or call 9904 6615.
Once a Haileyburian, always a Haileyburian.
Kylie Phillips
Development Office Operations Lead
Term 4 is a time of celebration for the Haileybury Pangea community, with several opportunities to connect online and in person. Highlights include the Year 12 Farewell Assembly and the Pangea Year 12 Graduation and Valedictory, recognising the achievements of our graduating students. Later in the term, students will gather at the Keysborough campus for the Year 12 Leadership Day on 11 November and the Years 7 and 8 Start-Up Pitch and Social Justice Event on 12 November. The year concludes with the Haileybury Pangea Celebration of Excellence streaming online on 4 December, and the Haileybury Carols event in Melbourne on 9 December. We look forward to celebrating with our students and families.
We are delighted to celebrate the achievements of several Haileybury Pangea students who have recently excelled in a diverse range of pursuits. Year 10 student Albert achieved exceptional success in the 2026 Australian Mathematics Competition and was shortlisted for one of the Australian Mathematics Trust’s highest honours after achieving a perfect score. Year 6 student Albert was recognised with the Most Valuable Player Award at the APS eSports Competition, where exceptional sportsmanship, positivity and leadership saw Albert praised by staff from across participating schools. Year 12 student Emma received a Community Achievement Award from the Girls Programming Network following an outstanding presentation at the PyCon Student Showcase, highlighting a growing contribution to the technology community.
Over the September holidays, Haileybury students delivered an outstanding performance at the Horseland Australian Interschool Championships, with the School achieving three National Champions in Equestrian. Among the Haileybury Pangea students participating were Maddison (Year 6), who was crowned National Champion in the 80cm Primary Show Jumping event; Annabelle (4th in Open Medium Dressage); and Cameron (Coco) (6th in 100cm Showjumping). We congratulate the entire Haileybury Equestrian team and staff for these fantastic results.
Joanna Baker
Head of Campus
Haileybury class of 2026 has officially graduated.
It is always an exciting and very emotional time of the year for our Year 12s as they gather for a series of formal and informal events to celebrate the culmination of their schooling.
Friday, 16 October was the last time the entire cohort was together as they attended their final senior school assembly. Afterwards, they enjoyed food trucks provided by the Old Haileyburians Association and then returned to Aikman Hall to present their own Year 12 Review which was a wonderful combination of onstage performances and amusing video anecdotes and farewells.
On Monday, 19 October (Haileybury Girls College) and Tuesday, 20 October (Haileybury College) were fondly farewelled by their Houses, led by their Heads of House, in gatherings that are always very moving.
The Haileybury College assembly, after the awarding of the House shields, was an opportunity for their outstanding School Captain, George, to deliver his final speech to Years 10–12, with the Haileybury Girls College School Captain, Isabelle, reducing her peers to tears in her emotional speech to the Senior School. The event ended with the ceremonial laying of the School Colour, a symbol of the end of the Year 12 cohort’s time at the School, ready to be unfurled by the incoming 2027 student leaders.
A highly enjoyable lunch, followed by the students hearing from nominated peers and staff, concluded the more informal part of the day.
The evening saw the students officially graduate, proudly walking across the stage to the applause of their teachers and loved ones who have been such a pivotal part of their academic journey. The Valedictory Dinner, held at Crown Palladium, was a fitting farewell to this outstanding group of students.
For the next few weeks, the students will be undertaking their final exams. We wish them all the best and thank the class of 2026 for their service to the School.
All students in Senior School have been engaging in examinations, and our Units 3 and 4 students will continue to sit exams in the coming weeks, so I encourage families to do all they can to support their children during this time.
While examinations will be a normal part of our students’ lives for the foreseeable future, VCE examinations can become all-consuming for young people in our care. A degree of encouragement from parents is always useful in helping students prepare for examinations; however, it is always important to balance this with the message that we will support them if things do not go as planned.
If you have any concerns about your child either during or post-examination period, please make sure that you contact their relevant Head of Pre-Senior or Head of House to discuss the support that Haileybury can offer.
Congratulations to Year 10 student Mehak , who has been named a finalist in the 2026 Student Poetry Competition. Mehak has been invited to attend Independent Schools Victoria’s Celebration of Student Poetry, an evening dedicated to recognising the talent, creativity and achievements of this year’s entrants, culminating in the announcement of the competition winners.
Congratulations to our incredible Year 10 student Lochie who was recently recognised through the Victorian Volunteer Awards. A finalist, Lochie was recognised for his significant contribution to SYN Media which he joined in 2024 at the age of 14 as a volunteer presenter, co-presenting The Hoist before becoming the Executive Producer of Amplify, SYN’s dedicated under-18's show. Lochie’s commitment to service reflects the generosity, initiative and community-minded spirit we value so highly at City. Well done, Lochie.
‘Saturdays at City’ has a certain ring to it. We have been impressed by the students undertaking Units 3 and 4 studies who attended a full or half day of practice examinations on Saturday, 17 October. We will host two further Saturday sessions, complete with invigilators, to provide students with valuable practice under timed examination conditions. We continue to be inspired by their diligence and commitment to their studies.
It has been an exciting end to the Debating season at Haileybury City, with three teams progressing through to the finals. Under the indefatigable coaching of Mr John Mavridis, our D Grade team of Year 9 students remained undefeated all season, progressing through the playoffs and into the octo finals. At the end of their first season, their future as debaters is certainly bright.
Our C Grade team of Aasha, Mehak, Tani, Alana and Amy, also undefeated, progressed through to the quarter finals where, in a close debate, they narrowly lost in split decision by the adjudicators. This places them in the top eight teams out of 500 across the state.
Our B Grade team of Ashwyn, Edward, Justin, Ruhaan and Krish have progressed through to the semi-finals, positioning them amongst four teams in the state. We wish them well as they continue their debating crusade.
Congratulations to Haileybury’s chess teams on an exceptional performance at the Interschool State Chess Finals.
Team 1 secured first place, earning the opportunity to represent Haileybury at the Australian Schools Teams Chess Championships in Canberra this December. Team 1 comprised Ryley, Kenny, Justin, Tiger and Jayden, while Team 2 was represented by Emily, Gautam, Alan, Evan and Damian.
A special congratulations to Year 7 student Justin, who competed on Board 1 and received the board prize as the tournament’s best-performing player.
This outstanding achievement reflects the skill, focus and teamwork demonstrated by all students involved. We congratulate both teams on their success and wish Team 1 the very best as they prepare to compete on the national stage.
The ADF Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Awards honour Years 10 and 12 students who demonstrate leadership, teamwork, community involvement, and values such as respect, doing one’s best and mateship. Established in 2006, they are coordinated by the Australian Defence Force and delivered through participating schools.
Congratulations to Lila, Year 12 and Tyson, Year 10 on receiving this award for 2026.
We are delighted to congratulate Anay, Anjan, Wisdom and Aaiyan on being named finalists in the John Locke Institute Global Essay Prize. The international competition challenges young people to think independently, develop their knowledge and present clear, persuasive arguments on demanding questions beyond the school curriculum. Entries are assessed by senior academics from leading universities, making finalist recognition an outstanding achievement. Special congratulations go to Anay, who received a Very High Commendation in Science and Technology, and Anjan , who received a High Commendation in Politics. These distinctions recognise the strength of their critical analysis, reasoning and written expression. We commend Anay, Anjan, Wisdom and Aaiyan for their intellectual curiosity, dedication and willingness to engage deeply with complex ideas. Their success is a wonderful achievement, and the School community is extremely proud of them.
It is with great pride that we recognise and celebrate the exceptional achievements of our Senior School students in the Australian Mathematics Competition, held in Term 3.
We especially acknowledge the outstanding success of the following students, who were awarded the prestigious Peter O’Halloran Award for achieving a perfect score, in addition to receiving a Prize:
Year 8
Anya
Year 10
Albert
Both students have thrived in learning environments that reflect their strengths, and we are delighted to celebrate their outstanding achievements.
We also recognise the outstanding achievements of the following students, whose results placed them among the top 0.3% and top 3% of competitors:
Prize Winner (top 0.3%)
Year 9
Aarin
Advait
Joshua
Kyle
Year 10
Jessica
Year 11
Xiyuan (Cici)
High Distinction (top 3%)
Year 9
Akein
Desal
Kenny Tran
Leon
Manuga
Nam
Ryan
Seyon
Xiaoshi
Year 10
Austen
Daksh
Jack
Jayden
Nathan
Sanjar
Year 11
Aadi
Adhyaan
William
Year 12
Muhammad
The 2026 Pre-Senior year has been filled with growth, adventure and self-discovery. Explore and Expeditions took Year 9 students from India and the Whitsundays to Vietnam and the Larapinta Trail, building courage, independence, cultural understanding and lasting friendships.
Thank you to the staff whose careful planning, professionalism and support made these opportunities possible.
The year concludes with the Annual Colour Run supporting The Smith Family, Pre-Senior Examinations, City CHASE 2026 and the Year 9 to Year 10 Transition Day on Friday, 13 November, which is an exciting milestone as students begin their Senior School journey.
Dr Nicholas Grigsby
Deputy Principal and Head of Senior Schools
As the official Melbourne school partner of the LA Rams, Haileybury is playing a leading role in growing Flag Football in schools and helping create a lasting legacy from the NFL’s historic visit to Australia. Through our ongoing partnership with the Rams, students have been introduced to the sport through coaching development, Come and Try opportunities and the recent LA Rams Flag Football Gala Day at our Brighton campus.
The Gala Day brought together 24 teams from APS and AGSV schools and highlighted the enormous potential of the sport, with students embracing the challenge of learning new skills while enjoying a fun and inclusive competitive environment.
Importantly, the partnership extends well beyond the Melbourne NFL game. In December, a group of Haileybury students will travel to Los Angeles, where they will experience world-class sporting environments including a visit to SoFi Stadium, while other students are pursuing American football pathway opportunities through specialist coaching with ProKick Australia. Together, these experiences are helping create genuine participation and performance pathways for Haileybury students while supporting the growth of Flag Football and American football in Australia.
While we are excited about creating new sporting opportunities for our students, the recent school holidays also provided another reminder of the extraordinary achievements of Haileybury students across an incredible range of sports.
Congratulations to Awen (Year 8 Newlands), a member of our First Badminton Team, who became a National Champion by winning the U17 Women’s Doubles title at the YONEX U13/U17 Australian National Individual Championships. Competing at U17 level while still in Year 8 makes the achievement particularly impressive and is a wonderful reward for Awen’s dedication to the sport.
It was also a fantastic holiday period for Thaadhie, who won both the Boys U14 Singles and Doubles titles at the J250 Victorian State Final Championship.
Thaadhie also won the U14 Melbourne Qualifier of the Orange Lion Sports Youth Tennis Series Global Elite Series, securing the opportunity to represent Australia in Shenzhen, China, in November. A terrific series of results and an exciting international opportunity ahead.
Another student reaching the top step of the podium was Isla (Brighton), who won gold at the AusTKD Australian National Championships to become an Australian National Champion. Becoming a national champion in any sport is an outstanding achievement and a wonderful reward for the commitment Isla has made to training and competition throughout the year.
Our Equestrian riders also produced an exceptional set of performances at the Horseland Australian Interschool Championships, bringing home three National Championship titles, with every Haileybury rider finishing inside the top six nationally.
Ethan (Year 7) was crowned National Champion in All Abilities Show Horse and Reserve Champion in All Abilities Dressage. Pearl (Year 11) won the EV95cm Eventing National Championship and placed third in the 105cm Combined Training, while Maddison (Year 6) became National Champion in the 80cm Primary Show Jumping.
There were also outstanding performances from Zara (Year 4), who finished fourth in Primary Novice Dressage, Annabelle (Year 10), who placed fourth in Open Medium Dressage, and Coco (Year 9), who secured a top six finish in 100cm Showjumping. These results represent one of the most successful national championship campaigns the Haileybury Equestrian program has ever enjoyed and are a credit to the commitment of our riders and their families.
Congratulations to all students on their outstanding achievements and for continuing to represent Haileybury with such distinction on the national stage.
In a fantastic result for Haileybury Water polo, Jacob (Y11), Cooper (Y11) and Darcy (Y10) all represented Victoria at the 17&U National State Championships. The Victorian team produced an outstanding tournament to reach the semi-finals before two incredibly close matches saw them finish fourth overall. A special congratulations to Jacob, who was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Goalkeeper, an exceptional achievement made even more impressive given he is a bottom-age athlete and will be eligible to represent Victoria again at 17&U level next year.
Matthew Dwyer
Head of Sport (One Haileybury)
In the spirit of reconciliation, Haileybury acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
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