Haileybury students in 2025 have excelled academically, in sport, and in the arts, along with achieving top NAPLAN and VCE/ATAR results. These outstanding successes provide exceptional opportunities, highlighting the importance of supporting students to maximise their talents and educational potential for a bright future.
The 2025 Lyrebird Awards took place at Bunjil Place on Sunday, bringing together our wider creative community to celebrate the power and passion of youth theatre. While we are immensely proud of the work created on the Aikman Stage, it was equally inspiring to stand alongside so many talented and innovative young artists from across Victoria. We extend our sincere congratulations to all nominees for their truly outstanding achievement.
It was especially heartening to hear Haileybury acknowledged across so many categories throughout the ceremony. The images and promotional material shared on screen reflected the energy, professionalism and creative spirit that underpin our program and our people.
Ruby Molnar and Alexis King captivated the audience with their beautiful rendition of ‘Slipping Through My Fingers’ from our May production of Mamma Mia! Their performance was both elegant and deeply mature, holding the room in a moment of quiet reflection. In that stillness, many were reminded of the fleeting nature of childhood and the profound, often unspoken bond that exists between parent and child. It is a connection that feels especially fitting as so many of our Haileybury performers now graduate and step out into the world to begin their next adventure.
We are incredibly proud of every student and staff member who has contributed to this year’s work. Thank you for the generosity, commitment and enthusiasm with which you have served our productions and our School.
As the 2025 theatre curtain begins to lower for the final time, we look ahead with anticipation to the next season, including our much-anticipated production of West Side Story and the autumn play.
2025 Lyrebird Award winners
Mamma Mia!
Best Ensemble Performer – Abir Bajpai
Best Solo Song (Female Role) – Alexis King – ‘The
Winner Takes It All’
Cursed Child
Best Sound – Erica D’Angelo
Best Costume – Nicole Smith
Best Cameo Performer – Sahana Rajarajan
Best Dramatic Performance – Arabella Walker
Best Performer in a Lead Male Role – Tyler Allan
On Wednesday 12 November, 250 Prep to Year 6 students from all four of Haileybury’s Melbourne campuses lit up the stage at the 2025 Haileybury Dance Gala.
This much-loved end-of-year event once again celebrated the hard work, creativity and joy of our after-school dance students. Dancers performed vibrant pieces across jazz, hip hop, lyrical and theatrical genres, filling the theatre with colour, energy and excitement. Sparkling costumes, big smiles and enthusiastic performances made the night truly memorable. Every student shone on stage, and their pride was evident as they stepped off to cheers from the audience.
A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful campus coordinators and coaches, whose dedication across all four campuses makes this program possible. Their commitment to nurturing each dancer ensures such polished and engaging performances.
We also thank our families and friends for their ongoing support.
We look forward to another fantastic year of after-school dance in 2026. Enrolments will open in late January via the myHaileybury app.
Nicole Smith
Head of Drama and Theatre Studies
As we conclude another vibrant and rewarding year in the Music Department, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all students, families and colleagues for their commitment, enthusiasm and trust. Our program continues to flourish because of the shared belief that music is not only an academic pursuit but a vital expression of community, creativity and humanity.
A particular highlight of the final week was the Haileybury Carols at St Paul’s Cathedral last Wednesday evening. The grandeur of the cathedral, paired with the poise and musicianship of our students, created an unforgettable celebration of the season. Performances from our choirs and instrumentalists were met with goodwill and praise from the capacity audience, and it was inspiring to witness the confidence and artistry our young musicians displayed on such a distinguished stage.
This year also marks a significant milestone as we celebrate the retirement of Ms Veronica Rutowicz after 35 years of devoted service as a piano teacher at Haileybury. Veronica’s musicianship, patience and unwavering commitment to her students have shaped generations of young performers. Her influence extends far beyond the studio, and she leaves a legacy of excellent teaching, kindness and deep musical understanding. We thank her sincerely for the immeasurable contribution she has made to Haileybury and wish her every joy in her well-deserved retirement.
I am thrilled to report that Haileybury families are enrolling in instrumental tuition at near record rates. In the last month alone more than 80 families have enrolled for music lessons beginning next year. As places within the instrumental program are filling fast several instruments already have waitlists, I would encourage families hoping to secure a place for 2026 to please explore the Instrumental Music Handbook asap.
Have a wonderful summer break everyone.
Rod Marshall
Director of Performing Arts & Head of Haileybury Music
As we wrap up a vibrant and productive year in the Visual Arts, it is a pleasure to introduce the 2026 Art Collective Leadership Team. Stepping into the roles of Captains are Angela Huang and Giorgio Gravina, with Mya Cornell and Leroy Lin joining them as Vice-Captains.
The Art Collective has already hit the ground running with the first event of the 2026 calendar, the Senior School Christmas Quad Party. It was fantastic to see the team come together to deliver festive, holiday-themed creative activities and to start building connections as a group. Their energy and enthusiasm set a wonderful tone for the year ahead.
It is time to pick up your pencils and paper, and fire up your imagination for the Haileybury Young Archie Competition. Create a portrait of someone special to you and show your talent to the school community.
Age categories
Create a portrait
Draw, paint or collage a portrait of someone special to you. Your artwork must:
Prepare artwork
Submitting entries
Judging and prizes
A Haileybury judging panel will assess all entries based on:
Finalists: 10 selected from each age category (5–8, 9–12, 13–15, 16–18) will have their work exhibited in the Haileybury Gallery.
Winners: 10 overall winners will win a $100 Zart Art Voucher and will be submitted to the official Young Archie Competition held by the Art Gallery of New South Wales during the Archibald Prize season.
Rachelle Rae
Head of Visual Arts Senior School
The Pipes & Drums attended the Big Melbourne Bagpipe Bash held in Federation Square, taking part in an attempt to break the world record for the most bagpipers performing AC/DC’s ‘It’s a Long Way to the Top.’ The previous record of 333 pipers was surpassed in spectacular fashion, with 374 pipers from across Australia and New Zealand performing on the day. It was an amazing experience for our young pipers, and we were honoured to be part of this world-record-breaking event.
This month has been another busy one for the Pipes & Drums, with performances at all five Celebration of Excellence evenings across the campuses. A standout moment for the group was performing Ed Sheeran’s ‘Castle on the Hill’ as part of the Newlands Campus massed singing item.
Our 2025 Pipes & Drums Captains, Jessie S and Sofia C, were awarded the Victorian Scottish Heritage Cultural Foundation Scholarship and performed at the annual Melbourne Scots Dinner. They represented Haileybury exceptionally well, and their performance was the talk of the night. Congratulations to both Jessie and Sofia on receiving this highly respected scholarship.
On behalf of the Pipes & Drums, we would like to wish all Haileybury families a wonderful festive season break.
Daniel Staley
Director of Pipes & Drums
Our Junior School Awards and Presentation Assembly was a wonderful celebration of the Junior School’s achievements in 2025. I congratulate all our Academic and Accomplishment Award winners and thank our string musicians who entertained us with their performance.
Our Middle School Celebration of Excellence was a glorious event on the banks of the Yarra. As the sun set over the City skyline, we were uplifted by our many musical performances, our young people’s successes and the finale of every student singing the song ‘Celebrate.’ Our campus is a special place for us all and as the sun sets on 2025, we think with gratitude about all the great things we have achieved this year. We have all worked hard and achieved much.
I express my gratitude to our City Executive Team for their wonderful leadership and contribution. Finally, I wish you a happy and safe holiday break and I will be out the front of our City campus in 2026 to start our celebrations of 10 years @ City.
The ELC children engaged in an educational and hands-on incursion with Precious Plastics to deepen their understanding of sustainability and machinery. This workshop provided rich opportunities for the children to learn about how plastic is made, the different types of plastics, why we use them, and why it is important to think of ‘waste’ as a valuable resource. They also explored which plastics can be recycled, how the recycling process works, and the many ways recycled plastics can be transformed into new and functional items.
The ELC particularly enjoyed the opportunity to break down recycled plastic using a professional machine and transform the materials into a functional object of their choice, including a pen, a small plant pot or a carabiner.
It was a wonderful opportunity for the children to make meaningful links between their learning and real-world sustainability practices, inspiring them to think creatively about reducing waste and caring for the environment.
As we draw closer to the end of the year, we thank you for joining us at our End of Year Celebration of Learning to showcase our learning journals and a musical performance.
It was wonderful to celebrate the children’s growth and learning and we thank our families for working in partnership with Haileybury City throughout the year.
Term 4 has been a vibrant celebration of the Arts, with students showcasing their creativity, confidence and collaborative spirit. The annual Dance Gala was a particular highlight, when students enrolled in our Dance Club took to the stage to perform two dance routines in the Prep–Year 2 troupe, or Years 3 and 4 troupe. The enthusiasm and joy were evident as students demonstrated skills learnt during the year, with supportive families and staff cheering from the audience at Aikman Hall.
Our Year 2 Strings students delighted the community with their end-of-year performance, demonstrating their growth and musicality. It was inspiring to see the young musicians play with such enthusiasm, reflecting the dedication of both students and their teachers throughout the year.
The Junior School Sing Celebration on Level 9 at City brought the community together for a joyful afternoon of singing. Students performed in their year level choir groups, before joining together as a whole Junior School choir with community singing to conclude the event. We extend a heartfelt thank you to our passionate music team for their commitment, guidance and encouragement, which has enriched the musical journeys of all our students.
Visual arts achievements were on full display at the City Art Show, where a diverse range of student artworks was exhibited. From vibrant paintings to imaginative sculptures, the showcase highlighted the creativity and skill of our young artists. The exhibition was a testament to the hard work of both students and teachers in nurturing artistic expression.
A significant milestone for our oldest Junior School students, the Year 4 Graduation was a memorable occasion. Families and staff gathered to celebrate the achievements and growth of our Year 4 cohort as they prepare for their transition to the next stage of their educational journey. The ceremony recognised not just academic success, but the development of character, leadership and friendships. We congratulate our Year 4 students and wish them every success in the years ahead.
This term, students enjoyed swimming lessons and activities at the North Melbourne Recreation Centre. These sessions provided valuable opportunities for skill development, water safety and fitness. It was wonderful to see students challenge themselves, support one another and build confidence in the water.
We wish everyone in our Junior School community a safe and happy summer holiday.
Our City community came together to celebrate the 2025 academic year in what was a brilliant showcase of student achievement. The evening highlighted the strength of our music program and the hard work, dedication and passion of our staff and students.
Congratulations to Candela (Dux Haileybury Girls College) and Nam (Dux Haileybury College), as well as Nevendie (Dux Proximus, Haileybury Girls College) and Christian (Dux Proximus, Haileybury College).
We thank our families for joining us on this special occasion and for their ongoing support of our students.
On behalf of the Middle School, we extend our thanks to the extraordinary Philippa Bell. Mrs Bell has dedicated 30 years of service to the Haileybury community, with the final chapter of her career spent here at City.
From The Lion King to Alice in Wonderland, Mulan to The Wizard of Oz, Mrs Bell has brought countless stories to life. An inaugural staff member of City, she has built a rich and enduring culture that champions the importance of Drama and the Arts. Passionate about both her students and the curriculum, she transformed the Level 2 space into a haven for creativity, self-expression and imagination.
Mrs Bell will be deeply missed, and we thank her for the legacy she leaves and for everything she has given to our community.
The world of City Art was on full display at this year’s Art Show, where our Junior and Middle School community came together to celebrate creativity, imagination and artistic expression.
As guests arrived, they were greeted by the familiar faces of iconic artists, including Vincent van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dalí and Andy Warhol, reimagined in playful cartoon form.
This year, guests were also invited to contribute to a collaborative artwork celebrating the idea that the Melbourne skyline would not be the same without Haileybury City and Haileybury City would not be the same without its wonderful community. Led by the Haileybury City Art Club, families and students worked together to create a striking City skyline that will be proudly displayed in the Level 2 Art Space.
It was a pleasure to see the Mini Makers Market thriving, adding a vibrant, hands-on element to the evening. The musical performances throughout the event further elevated the atmosphere, showcasing the breadth of talent across our School.
Thank you to Mr Blake Hicks and the entire Arts team for bringing together such a thoughtful, inspiring and memorable celebration of the Arts at City.
Summer holidays are the perfect opportunity to relax with a great book. Research shows that reading for pleasure not only strengthens literacy skills but also supports wellbeing, making it the ideal combination for a long break.
This year, our most borrowed books were:
If you have not already, pick up one of these favourites over the break and enjoy a wonderful summer read.
Caroline Merrick
Head of City
Our AGM, which was held in person with an option to dial in, drew an excellent turnout and provided an opportunity to reflect on our achievements, set goals, farewell and welcome new members. We extend our gratitude to the outgoing 2025 Executive Committee and Social Committee Representatives for their time, energy and commitment. Their contributions have helped further the goals of HPF City and strengthen our community.
A significant milestone at this year’s AGM worth noting was the approval of a $15,000 contribution towards building a first HPF City Scholarship. Further discussions with the Haileybury Foundation will continue into the new year as we work towards this exciting initiative.
As your newly elected Co-Presidents for 2025 we are honoured to serve and grateful for the support of our community. Melissa Fisher concluded her term as Co-President at the conclusion of the 2025 AGM and will step into the Past President Representative role for 2026 along with other familiar and new members. In our next edition we will include more info about the team for 2026.
As Mel steps down from the Co-President role this year, she has a few final words to share.
A note from Melissa Fisher:
After three truly wonderful years as President/Co-President of HPF City, I want to say a big, heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way. HPF City has grown so much in this time, with sell-out events, an automated second-hand uniform shop, and an incredible committee and social representation. Watching our ideas turn into real change and seeing the positive impact in our community has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.
Thank you to the fabulous Michelle White, who has been a wonderful Co-President in 2025. Thank you for sharing the fun with me.
I would also like to give a very special thank you to Caroline Merrick. Caroline has been an incredible mentor and a constant source of encouragement over these past three years. We are truly lucky to have someone so dedicated cheering on HPF City. So much of what we have achieved is thanks to Caroline and her executive team’s unwavering support.
Even though I am stepping back from the presidency, I am not going far. I will still be part of the committee in 2026. So please, as always, come up and say hi. I am excited to continue being part of this wonderful community.
With the end of the year approaching, this is a perfect time to sort out those outgrown and no longer needed uniform items. You can deliver them to the collection bins for sale at the second-hand uniform shop. To assist families, the bins can be found at City Reception at King Street until Wednesday, 17 December 2025. Reception re-opens Monday, 5 January and more information can be found on the myHaileybury app.
As we wrap up another successful year, it is clear that 2025 has been a fantastic one bringing our HPF community closer while supporting the students at the City campus.
We ran three key events this year: the HPF City Rooftop event in March, the Middle School Family Trivia Night in Term 3, and the City Glam Disco in October. These brought families together and helped us reach our fundraising goal of $2,000 per school (ELC, JS, MS, SS) for student-selected items. Additional funds from the MS Trivia Night also enabled us to contribute to a gaga pit purchase for Middle School. To all who have given their time, donated, and supported us in so many ways, thank you. Your involvement is what makes these initiatives possible.
We are deeply grateful to Caroline Merrick, Lucy Cumming and the entire Haileybury team for their ongoing support, which has been essential to the success of every HPF City event and activity. Special thanks are extended to Gabe Di Martino and his team, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to set up each event, handle all the heavy lifting and clean up after us at the end.
To our wonderful teaching staff thank you for the dedication, patience and inspiration you bring into our children’s lives every single day. We are so fortunate to have such passionate educators guiding them.
Welcome to the new families joining Haileybury in 2026 and we extend a fond goodbye to the families moving on and our warmest wishes to our Year 12 students as they step into the next chapter of their journey. We are cheering you on.
Please take a moment to check our 2026 HPF City calendar. Next year’s events are already locked in. They are fantastic opportunities to connect, get involved and enjoy our vibrant community. Mark your diaries and don’t miss out.
For your 2026 calendar:
Have a wonderful Christmas break, stay safe and we will see you at the Welcome Morning Tea in 2026.
Michelle White and Andrea Livingston
Co-Presidents, Haileybury Parents & Friends City
Throughout 2025, Newlands has continued to deepen our commitment with a focused strategy we have called Through the Eyes of Excellence. It challenges us all to see every lesson, every interaction and every opportunity as a chance to pursue excellence.
Newlands is a wonderful campus, with well over 1,000 students. It is a place where, supported by a team of brilliant academic staff, students are encouraged to not only cover the curriculum but instead, uncover it. For some students, Newlands represents an eleven-year journey from Early Learning to the end of middle school, where they grow, question, stumble, rise, and ultimately discover who they are becoming. What happens here is powerful. Newlands is where foundations are laid quietly, day by day, until they become a strength. It is here that students build the academic courage to take risks, the resilience to persist, and where curiosity and creativity is a compass that nudges our students to ask one more question, explore one more idea and see the world not as it is, but as it could be. The Newlands years are not just preparation for what comes next, they are the foundation upon which every success in Years 9, 10, 11 and 12 will stand. As our students step forward, especially those now commencing the final four years of their Haileybury journey, may they carry with them the depth of learning, character and curiosity shaped here at Newlands.
Congratulations and thank you to all members of the Newlands community for a fabulous 2025. Next year, we look forward to celebrating 50 years of our remarkable campus: Newlands.
Hugo Engele
Head of Newlands (Keysborough)
We would like to extend a huge thank you to our wonderful HPFK community for your ongoing support, generosity and time throughout the year. We truly couldn’t do what we do without the parents and families who volunteer at events, assist in the uniform shop, and show up to support our community in so many ways.
Your willingness to get involved, lend a hand and support one another is what makes HPFK such a welcoming and connected community. We are incredibly grateful for the positive spirit and teamwork shown across all our events this year.
To our new families joining us in 2026, welcome to the HPFK community. We wish everyone a safe, happy and relaxing Christmas and New Year, and we look forward to connecting with you all again in the year ahead.
Amy Ching
HPFK President
We are excited to announce the launch of the OHA Alumni Internship program in 2026. It aims to offer young Old Haileyburians the opportunity to gain professional work experience by undertaking an internship in the workplace of a member of the Haileybury community. Internships will be available to Old Haileyburians undertaking tertiary studies or who have recently completed an undergraduate degree.
Would you like to offer an internship to a Haileyburian?
We would love to hear from you. Please complete the online form via https://oha.org.au/become-a-host-business/
We are excited to share an incredible offer from Australian Racing Tours by Old Haileyburian John McGauran (OH 1996).
OHA members get a 5% discount on all our tours.
Founded in 2012, Australian Racing Tours provides racing enthusiasts access to world-class thoroughbred racing at leading venues across Australia and internationally.
“All our tour packages include quality, centrally located accommodation, welcome functions and events, premium race day hospitality, VIP access to stables and trainers, transfers throughout, plus the services of experienced hosts while enjoying it all in the company of like-minded racing lovers.”
Simply log in or sign up to access your exclusive discount code:
https://oha.org.au/business-directory/australian-racing-tours/
OHA BUSINESS OWNERS: WE WANT YOU!
If you are a business owner, we can drive OHA members to your business. Becoming an OHA Rewards merchant is quick, simple, flexible and free to join. Contact us today to find out more via stayconnected@haileybury.com.au.
The OHA recognises that the non-Melbourne and non-physical based campuses of Haileybury present some unique opportunities and challenges with regards to engagement. Similarly, we recognise that students graduating from Melbourne based campuses may wish to pursue higher education interstate or overseas. As part of an ongoing support campaign, the OHA wishes to support students who need to relocate following graduation for the purposes of study. Applications will open following the release of university offers in December. For more information about the relocation bursary and to apply, please visit: https://oha.org.au/oha-relocation-bursary. Once a Haileyburian, always a Haileyburian.
Kylie Phillips
Development Office Operations Lead
The 8th Celebration of Excellence at the Darwin Convention Centre on December 9 was an opportunity to celebrate all the incredible student achievements in 2025.
In recent news, it was stunning to see the comparison of our Junior School NAPLAN results against other Territory Schools. These outstanding outcomes highlight the positive impact of brilliant teaching, explicit instruction, motivated and engaged students and the support of our community. As an example, the graph below shows how HRS compares by averaging all Year 3 NAPLAN outcomes against other leading NT Schools. Year 3 data include many students who have been at HRS for four years now.
On Thursday, 11 December we received the VCE and ATAR results for our class of 2025 and we are very excited how these will help realise the many post-school destinations that our students have chosen. The results were outstanding!
Important and well-received upgrades to classrooms and buildings have continued apace in 2025 and it is very pleasing that we expect to complete the building of a large indoor multi-purpose activities centre in 2026. This facility will provide air-conditioned sporting comfort for all students and staff and open up a wide range of possibilities for different events outside school hours. We are also planning to repurpose a large building and create a modern innovation hub to encourage digital connection, entrepreneurship and a range of other state-of-the-art subjects and opportunities for our students from next year. The excitement and potential of these projects is being felt by all.
We also welcome some brilliant new educational leaders to HRS for 2026, including Director of Strategic Initiatives, Marc Vegter, from Haileybury Melbourne; Director of Boarding, Tom Ziebell, from Carey Grammar and Head of Middle School, Katherine Ziebell, from Carey Grammar.
Andrew McGregor
Principal, Haileybury Rendall School
As the 2025 school year draws to a close, our Senior School community reflects with pride on a year defined by purpose, hard work and a strong sense of togetherness. Guided by our core values of integrity, fair play and genuine care, we have seen outstanding achievements both in and beyond the classroom.
This year, students have embraced ambitious goals, supported each other, and thrived in an environment where success is built on collaboration and mutual respect. The expansion of co-curricular programs, the launch of new learning facilities, and vibrant arts and sports achievements have provided rich opportunities for all.
Our graduating Class of 2025 exemplified perseverance and leadership, leaving a legacy of optimism and excellence for future students. From impressive academic results to memorable social and community events, their journey has been supported by dedicated staff and families who work together to nurture growth and wellbeing.
Whether on the sports field, the stage, or through service and sustainability projects, our students have displayed character and creativity. Partnerships between home and school have remained central, ensuring every student feels known, challenged and supported.
As we look forward to 2026, we do so with gratitude and enthusiasm, ready to continue our tradition of striving for excellence, cultivating character and building a caring community. Thank you to our students, staff, families and alumni for making 2025 a year to remember.
I would like to thank all Haileybury’s staff and students for the way that they began the 2026 academic year. Term 1A is a chance for students to begin their 2026 studies early and become comfortable in their new classes before heading off on an extended summer break. It takes an enormous amount of organisation and effort to ensure that a new school year is ready to go in November of the previous year; however, Haileybury believes that getting a head start on the new year is of great benefit to our students, particularly those undertaking VCE Units 3 and 4 studies.
As the academic year concludes, I would like to say sincere thanks to you all for your ongoing support of Haileybury.
My best wishes to you all for a safe and happy time away from the usual school routine.
Many Haileybury students and families gathered on the evening of Friday, 5 December to celebrate another successful year at Haileybury. The night also featured prize giving for our very best sportspeople, performers and academics. The quality of the musical performances on the night was outstanding, bearing testament to the strength of Haileybury’s performing arts program.
Over 450 Year 10 students participated in Work Experience placements during Term 4. Work Experience is the short-term placement of secondary school students with employers to provide insights into industry and the workplace. It provides students with the valuable opportunity to: develop employability skills; explore possible career options; understand employer expectations; and increase their self-understanding, maturity, independence and self-confidence. The skills and insights gained during work experience are invaluable, and we are very grateful to the employers who so generously supported our students.
We would like to congratulate the following Year 11 students on being accepted into the Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program for 2027.
Successful applicants of the Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program will become part of a supportive university community and peer network through a tailored program of events and activities. We look forward to working with you over the next two years to help these future leaders reach their potential.
Dr Nicholas Grigsby
Deputy Principal, Head of Senior Schools
In the French Department, Term 1A began with great excitement as the Alliance Française Ceremony was scheduled for the Monday, 17 of November. Three of our outstanding students received awards in several categories, namely:
The evening was filled with poetry, and our students spoke with remarkable elegance. The prestigious ceremony took place at The Capitol, a magnificent venue on Swanston Street. Our students left deeply inspired, and French will always hold a special place in their hearts.
Maud Fugier-Sola
Head of French
In early December, the Boys First Basketball team was one of nearly 230 teams to participate at the Australian School Championships on the Gold Coast. Competing in U20 Division 1 Men, the boys finished the week with victory in the grand final, defeating Newington College (NSW) 64–62 in a hotly contested match. Newington shot the ball extremely well and took an early lead before the Bloods settled and regained the lead at quarter time. Momentum ebbed and flowed, with the lead never getting above five points and with five seconds remaining Newington made a three-pointer to close to a point. Despite extreme pressure and some missed free throws, Haileybury held on to win by two points and secure the title.
Earlier this month, we kicked off our partnership with the Los Angeles Rams NFL Gridiron team. The Rams are one of the most recognisable brands in world sport and we were extremely excited to welcome them to Keysborough where they hosted a Rams Flag training sessions for over 650 Years 5–6 students from across all four campuses. We were lucky enough to welcome the Rams official mascot ‘Rampage,’ who has over 300,000 followers, as well as members of the Rams cheerleading squad who host hundreds of community initiatives each year. This event kicked off our long-term partnership with the Rams who are playing an official game of NFL football in Melbourne in September next year. The Rams are going to support our ambitions to grow NFL Flag, which is a non-contact version of NFL Football for both boys and girls. Who knows, maybe one day leading to a medal for a Haileyburian in this newly introduced Olympic sport.
Haileybury delivered an exceptional showing at the National All Schools Championships, with 10 athletes competing and every one of them progressing to multiple finals, posting personal bests and edging closer to World Junior qualification standards.
Notable performances included Archie’s gold in the 400m, finishing agonizingly close to a World Junior qualifier, alongside Portia’s podium in the 80m hurdles and Jett’s impressive medal in the 1500m, all showcasing tremendous determination and precision in race execution.
Results
Golds – Archie U18 400m & 4x100m
Silvers – Portia U14 80m Hurdles & 4x100m
Bronze – Jett U17 1500m
4th – Jaz U18 Shot Put & Discus
5th – Nate U16 200m Hurdles
5th – Matty U17 400m
6th – Selini U14 400m
6th – Portia U14 Long Jump
6th – Libby U16 3km
6th – Julia U18 200m
7th – Libby U16 2km Steeple
7th – Nate U16 100m Hurdles
8th – Cal U14 400m
Haileybury entered the 5/6 Touch Championships in late November with cross-campus teams playing together for the first time and all four teams got to their Grand Finals. The results were:
Year 5 Girls – Runners Up
Year 5 Boys – State Champions
Year 6 Girls – State Champions
Year 6 Boys – Runners Up
Despite some horrendous weather at times, the players were all brilliant and represented the School with pride. A huge thank you and congratulations to Andrew, Nick, Terry and Shane for all their coaching, enthusiasm and encouragement throughout the day.
Nikola (Year 12 – Keysborough) has been named in the U/20 Young Socceroo's National Squad to play in the SBS Cup in Japan in December. Nikola first joined Haileybury in Year 7 and has been in the Blazer Squad since 2022, adding First team captain responsibilities for the last two seasons. He unfortunately missed most of the 2024 year with a back injury, but over the last twelve months has worked tirelessly, both with the School team under the mentorship of Grant Brebner and his NPL club Melbourne City. The honour of pulling on the green and gold colours is testimony to his skill and determination, and we thank him for his significant contribution to the Haileybury Soccer program. Good luck Nikola.
Matthew Dwyer
Head of Sport (One Haileybury)
The 2025 Lyrebird Awards took place at Bunjil Place on Sunday, bringing together our wider creative community to celebrate the power and passion of youth theatre. While we are immensely proud of the work created on the Aikman Stage, it was equally inspiring to stand alongside so many talented and innovative young artists from across Victoria. We extend our sincere congratulations to all nominees for their truly outstanding achievement.
It was especially heartening to hear Haileybury acknowledged across so many categories throughout the ceremony. The images and promotional material shared on screen reflected the energy, professionalism and creative spirit that underpin our program and our people.
Ruby Molnar and Alexis King captivated the audience with their beautiful rendition of ‘Slipping Through My Fingers’ from our May production of Mamma Mia! Their performance was both elegant and deeply mature, holding the room in a moment of quiet reflection. In that stillness, many were reminded of the fleeting nature of childhood and the profound, often unspoken bond that exists between parent and child. It is a connection that feels especially fitting as so many of our Haileybury performers now graduate and step out into the world to begin their next adventure.
We are incredibly proud of every student and staff member who has contributed to this year’s work. Thank you for the generosity, commitment and enthusiasm with which you have served our productions and our School.
As the 2025 theatre curtain begins to lower for the final time, we look ahead with anticipation to the next season, including our much-anticipated production of West Side Story and the autumn play.
2025 Lyrebird Award winners
Mamma Mia!
Best Ensemble Performer – Abir Bajpai
Best Solo Song (Female Role) – Alexis King – ‘The
Winner Takes It All’
Cursed Child
Best Sound – Erica D’Angelo
Best Costume – Nicole Smith
Best Cameo Performer – Sahana Rajarajan
Best Dramatic Performance – Arabella Walker
Best Performer in a Lead Male Role – Tyler Allan
On Wednesday 12 November, 250 Prep to Year 6 students from all four of Haileybury’s Melbourne campuses lit up the stage at the 2025 Haileybury Dance Gala.
This much-loved end-of-year event once again celebrated the hard work, creativity and joy of our after-school dance students. Dancers performed vibrant pieces across jazz, hip hop, lyrical and theatrical genres, filling the theatre with colour, energy and excitement. Sparkling costumes, big smiles and enthusiastic performances made the night truly memorable. Every student shone on stage, and their pride was evident as they stepped off to cheers from the audience.
A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful campus coordinators and coaches, whose dedication across all four campuses makes this program possible. Their commitment to nurturing each dancer ensures such polished and engaging performances.
We also thank our families and friends for their ongoing support.
We look forward to another fantastic year of after-school dance in 2026. Enrolments will open in late January via the myHaileybury app.
Nicole Smith
Head of Drama and Theatre Studies
As we conclude another vibrant and rewarding year in the Music Department, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all students, families and colleagues for their commitment, enthusiasm and trust. Our program continues to flourish because of the shared belief that music is not only an academic pursuit but a vital expression of community, creativity and humanity.
A particular highlight of the final week was the Haileybury Carols at St Paul’s Cathedral last Wednesday evening. The grandeur of the cathedral, paired with the poise and musicianship of our students, created an unforgettable celebration of the season. Performances from our choirs and instrumentalists were met with goodwill and praise from the capacity audience, and it was inspiring to witness the confidence and artistry our young musicians displayed on such a distinguished stage.
This year also marks a significant milestone as we celebrate the retirement of Ms Veronica Rutowicz after 35 years of devoted service as a piano teacher at Haileybury. Veronica’s musicianship, patience and unwavering commitment to her students have shaped generations of young performers. Her influence extends far beyond the studio, and she leaves a legacy of excellent teaching, kindness and deep musical understanding. We thank her sincerely for the immeasurable contribution she has made to Haileybury and wish her every joy in her well-deserved retirement.
I am thrilled to report that Haileybury families are enrolling in instrumental tuition at near record rates. In the last month alone more than 80 families have enrolled for music lessons beginning next year. As places within the instrumental program are filling fast several instruments already have waitlists, I would encourage families hoping to secure a place for 2026 to please explore the Instrumental Music Handbook asap.
Have a wonderful summer break everyone.
Rod Marshall
Director of Performing Arts & Head of Haileybury Music
As we wrap up a vibrant and productive year in the Visual Arts, it is a pleasure to introduce the 2026 Art Collective Leadership Team. Stepping into the roles of Captains are Angela Huang and Giorgio Gravina, with Mya Cornell and Leroy Lin joining them as Vice-Captains.
The Art Collective has already hit the ground running with the first event of the 2026 calendar, the Senior School Christmas Quad Party. It was fantastic to see the team come together to deliver festive, holiday-themed creative activities and to start building connections as a group. Their energy and enthusiasm set a wonderful tone for the year ahead.
It is time to pick up your pencils and paper, and fire up your imagination for the Haileybury Young Archie Competition. Create a portrait of someone special to you and show your talent to the school community.
Age categories
Create a portrait
Draw, paint or collage a portrait of someone special to you. Your artwork must:
Prepare artwork
Submitting entries
Judging and prizes
A Haileybury judging panel will assess all entries based on:
Finalists: 10 selected from each age category (5–8, 9–12, 13–15, 16–18) will have their work exhibited in the Haileybury Gallery.
Winners: 10 overall winners will win a $100 Zart Art Voucher and will be submitted to the official Young Archie Competition held by the Art Gallery of New South Wales during the Archibald Prize season.
Rachelle Rae
Head of Visual Arts Senior School
The Pipes & Drums attended the Big Melbourne Bagpipe Bash held in Federation Square, taking part in an attempt to break the world record for the most bagpipers performing AC/DC’s ‘It’s a Long Way to the Top.’ The previous record of 333 pipers was surpassed in spectacular fashion, with 374 pipers from across Australia and New Zealand performing on the day. It was an amazing experience for our young pipers, and we were honoured to be part of this world-record-breaking event.
This month has been another busy one for the Pipes & Drums, with performances at all five Celebration of Excellence evenings across the campuses. A standout moment for the group was performing Ed Sheeran’s ‘Castle on the Hill’ as part of the Newlands Campus massed singing item.
Our 2025 Pipes & Drums Captains, Jessie S and Sofia C, were awarded the Victorian Scottish Heritage Cultural Foundation Scholarship and performed at the annual Melbourne Scots Dinner. They represented Haileybury exceptionally well, and their performance was the talk of the night. Congratulations to both Jessie and Sofia on receiving this highly respected scholarship.
On behalf of the Pipes & Drums, we would like to wish all Haileybury families a wonderful festive season break.
Daniel Staley
Director of Pipes & Drums
Our Junior School Awards and Presentation Assembly was a wonderful celebration of the Junior School’s achievements in 2025. I congratulate all our Academic and Accomplishment Award winners and thank our string musicians who entertained us with their performance.
Our Middle School Celebration of Excellence was a glorious event on the banks of the Yarra. As the sun set over the City skyline, we were uplifted by our many musical performances, our young people’s successes and the finale of every student singing the song ‘Celebrate.’ Our campus is a special place for us all and as the sun sets on 2025, we think with gratitude about all the great things we have achieved this year. We have all worked hard and achieved much.
I express my gratitude to our City Executive Team for their wonderful leadership and contribution. Finally, I wish you a happy and safe holiday break and I will be out the front of our City campus in 2026 to start our celebrations of 10 years @ City.
The ELC children engaged in an educational and hands-on incursion with Precious Plastics to deepen their understanding of sustainability and machinery. This workshop provided rich opportunities for the children to learn about how plastic is made, the different types of plastics, why we use them, and why it is important to think of ‘waste’ as a valuable resource. They also explored which plastics can be recycled, how the recycling process works, and the many ways recycled plastics can be transformed into new and functional items.
The ELC particularly enjoyed the opportunity to break down recycled plastic using a professional machine and transform the materials into a functional object of their choice, including a pen, a small plant pot or a carabiner.
It was a wonderful opportunity for the children to make meaningful links between their learning and real-world sustainability practices, inspiring them to think creatively about reducing waste and caring for the environment.
As we draw closer to the end of the year, we thank you for joining us at our End of Year Celebration of Learning to showcase our learning journals and a musical performance.
It was wonderful to celebrate the children’s growth and learning and we thank our families for working in partnership with Haileybury City throughout the year.
Term 4 has been a vibrant celebration of the Arts, with students showcasing their creativity, confidence and collaborative spirit. The annual Dance Gala was a particular highlight, when students enrolled in our Dance Club took to the stage to perform two dance routines in the Prep–Year 2 troupe, or Years 3 and 4 troupe. The enthusiasm and joy were evident as students demonstrated skills learnt during the year, with supportive families and staff cheering from the audience at Aikman Hall.
Our Year 2 Strings students delighted the community with their end-of-year performance, demonstrating their growth and musicality. It was inspiring to see the young musicians play with such enthusiasm, reflecting the dedication of both students and their teachers throughout the year.
The Junior School Sing Celebration on Level 9 at City brought the community together for a joyful afternoon of singing. Students performed in their year level choir groups, before joining together as a whole Junior School choir with community singing to conclude the event. We extend a heartfelt thank you to our passionate music team for their commitment, guidance and encouragement, which has enriched the musical journeys of all our students.
Visual arts achievements were on full display at the City Art Show, where a diverse range of student artworks was exhibited. From vibrant paintings to imaginative sculptures, the showcase highlighted the creativity and skill of our young artists. The exhibition was a testament to the hard work of both students and teachers in nurturing artistic expression.
A significant milestone for our oldest Junior School students, the Year 4 Graduation was a memorable occasion. Families and staff gathered to celebrate the achievements and growth of our Year 4 cohort as they prepare for their transition to the next stage of their educational journey. The ceremony recognised not just academic success, but the development of character, leadership and friendships. We congratulate our Year 4 students and wish them every success in the years ahead.
This term, students enjoyed swimming lessons and activities at the North Melbourne Recreation Centre. These sessions provided valuable opportunities for skill development, water safety and fitness. It was wonderful to see students challenge themselves, support one another and build confidence in the water.
We wish everyone in our Junior School community a safe and happy summer holiday.
Our City community came together to celebrate the 2025 academic year in what was a brilliant showcase of student achievement. The evening highlighted the strength of our music program and the hard work, dedication and passion of our staff and students.
Congratulations to Candela (Dux Haileybury Girls College) and Nam (Dux Haileybury College), as well as Nevendie (Dux Proximus, Haileybury Girls College) and Christian (Dux Proximus, Haileybury College).
We thank our families for joining us on this special occasion and for their ongoing support of our students.
On behalf of the Middle School, we extend our thanks to the extraordinary Philippa Bell. Mrs Bell has dedicated 30 years of service to the Haileybury community, with the final chapter of her career spent here at City.
From The Lion King to Alice in Wonderland, Mulan to The Wizard of Oz, Mrs Bell has brought countless stories to life. An inaugural staff member of City, she has built a rich and enduring culture that champions the importance of Drama and the Arts. Passionate about both her students and the curriculum, she transformed the Level 2 space into a haven for creativity, self-expression and imagination.
Mrs Bell will be deeply missed, and we thank her for the legacy she leaves and for everything she has given to our community.
The world of City Art was on full display at this year’s Art Show, where our Junior and Middle School community came together to celebrate creativity, imagination and artistic expression.
As guests arrived, they were greeted by the familiar faces of iconic artists, including Vincent van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dalí and Andy Warhol, reimagined in playful cartoon form.
This year, guests were also invited to contribute to a collaborative artwork celebrating the idea that the Melbourne skyline would not be the same without Haileybury City and Haileybury City would not be the same without its wonderful community. Led by the Haileybury City Art Club, families and students worked together to create a striking City skyline that will be proudly displayed in the Level 2 Art Space.
It was a pleasure to see the Mini Makers Market thriving, adding a vibrant, hands-on element to the evening. The musical performances throughout the event further elevated the atmosphere, showcasing the breadth of talent across our School.
Thank you to Mr Blake Hicks and the entire Arts team for bringing together such a thoughtful, inspiring and memorable celebration of the Arts at City.
Summer holidays are the perfect opportunity to relax with a great book. Research shows that reading for pleasure not only strengthens literacy skills but also supports wellbeing, making it the ideal combination for a long break.
This year, our most borrowed books were:
If you have not already, pick up one of these favourites over the break and enjoy a wonderful summer read.
Caroline Merrick
Head of City
Our AGM, which was held in person with an option to dial in, drew an excellent turnout and provided an opportunity to reflect on our achievements, set goals, farewell and welcome new members. We extend our gratitude to the outgoing 2025 Executive Committee and Social Committee Representatives for their time, energy and commitment. Their contributions have helped further the goals of HPF City and strengthen our community.
A significant milestone at this year’s AGM worth noting was the approval of a $15,000 contribution towards building a first HPF City Scholarship. Further discussions with the Haileybury Foundation will continue into the new year as we work towards this exciting initiative.
As your newly elected Co-Presidents for 2025 we are honoured to serve and grateful for the support of our community. Melissa Fisher concluded her term as Co-President at the conclusion of the 2025 AGM and will step into the Past President Representative role for 2026 along with other familiar and new members. In our next edition we will include more info about the team for 2026.
As Mel steps down from the Co-President role this year, she has a few final words to share.
A note from Melissa Fisher:
After three truly wonderful years as President/Co-President of HPF City, I want to say a big, heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way. HPF City has grown so much in this time, with sell-out events, an automated second-hand uniform shop, and an incredible committee and social representation. Watching our ideas turn into real change and seeing the positive impact in our community has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.
Thank you to the fabulous Michelle White, who has been a wonderful Co-President in 2025. Thank you for sharing the fun with me.
I would also like to give a very special thank you to Caroline Merrick. Caroline has been an incredible mentor and a constant source of encouragement over these past three years. We are truly lucky to have someone so dedicated cheering on HPF City. So much of what we have achieved is thanks to Caroline and her executive team’s unwavering support.
Even though I am stepping back from the presidency, I am not going far. I will still be part of the committee in 2026. So please, as always, come up and say hi. I am excited to continue being part of this wonderful community.
With the end of the year approaching, this is a perfect time to sort out those outgrown and no longer needed uniform items. You can deliver them to the collection bins for sale at the second-hand uniform shop. To assist families, the bins can be found at City Reception at King Street until Wednesday, 17 December 2025. Reception re-opens Monday, 5 January and more information can be found on the myHaileybury app.
As we wrap up another successful year, it is clear that 2025 has been a fantastic one bringing our HPF community closer while supporting the students at the City campus.
We ran three key events this year: the HPF City Rooftop event in March, the Middle School Family Trivia Night in Term 3, and the City Glam Disco in October. These brought families together and helped us reach our fundraising goal of $2,000 per school (ELC, JS, MS, SS) for student-selected items. Additional funds from the MS Trivia Night also enabled us to contribute to a gaga pit purchase for Middle School. To all who have given their time, donated, and supported us in so many ways, thank you. Your involvement is what makes these initiatives possible.
We are deeply grateful to Caroline Merrick, Lucy Cumming and the entire Haileybury team for their ongoing support, which has been essential to the success of every HPF City event and activity. Special thanks are extended to Gabe Di Martino and his team, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to set up each event, handle all the heavy lifting and clean up after us at the end.
To our wonderful teaching staff thank you for the dedication, patience and inspiration you bring into our children’s lives every single day. We are so fortunate to have such passionate educators guiding them.
Welcome to the new families joining Haileybury in 2026 and we extend a fond goodbye to the families moving on and our warmest wishes to our Year 12 students as they step into the next chapter of their journey. We are cheering you on.
Please take a moment to check our 2026 HPF City calendar. Next year’s events are already locked in. They are fantastic opportunities to connect, get involved and enjoy our vibrant community. Mark your diaries and don’t miss out.
For your 2026 calendar:
Have a wonderful Christmas break, stay safe and we will see you at the Welcome Morning Tea in 2026.
Michelle White and Andrea Livingston
Co-Presidents, Haileybury Parents & Friends City
Throughout 2025, Newlands has continued to deepen our commitment with a focused strategy we have called Through the Eyes of Excellence. It challenges us all to see every lesson, every interaction and every opportunity as a chance to pursue excellence.
Newlands is a wonderful campus, with well over 1,000 students. It is a place where, supported by a team of brilliant academic staff, students are encouraged to not only cover the curriculum but instead, uncover it. For some students, Newlands represents an eleven-year journey from Early Learning to the end of middle school, where they grow, question, stumble, rise, and ultimately discover who they are becoming. What happens here is powerful. Newlands is where foundations are laid quietly, day by day, until they become a strength. It is here that students build the academic courage to take risks, the resilience to persist, and where curiosity and creativity is a compass that nudges our students to ask one more question, explore one more idea and see the world not as it is, but as it could be. The Newlands years are not just preparation for what comes next, they are the foundation upon which every success in Years 9, 10, 11 and 12 will stand. As our students step forward, especially those now commencing the final four years of their Haileybury journey, may they carry with them the depth of learning, character and curiosity shaped here at Newlands.
Congratulations and thank you to all members of the Newlands community for a fabulous 2025. Next year, we look forward to celebrating 50 years of our remarkable campus: Newlands.
Hugo Engele
Head of Newlands (Keysborough)
We would like to extend a huge thank you to our wonderful HPFK community for your ongoing support, generosity and time throughout the year. We truly couldn’t do what we do without the parents and families who volunteer at events, assist in the uniform shop, and show up to support our community in so many ways.
Your willingness to get involved, lend a hand and support one another is what makes HPFK such a welcoming and connected community. We are incredibly grateful for the positive spirit and teamwork shown across all our events this year.
To our new families joining us in 2026, welcome to the HPFK community. We wish everyone a safe, happy and relaxing Christmas and New Year, and we look forward to connecting with you all again in the year ahead.
Amy Ching
HPFK President
We are excited to announce the launch of the OHA Alumni Internship program in 2026. It aims to offer young Old Haileyburians the opportunity to gain professional work experience by undertaking an internship in the workplace of a member of the Haileybury community. Internships will be available to Old Haileyburians undertaking tertiary studies or who have recently completed an undergraduate degree.
Would you like to offer an internship to a Haileyburian?
We would love to hear from you. Please complete the online form via https://oha.org.au/become-a-host-business/
We are excited to share an incredible offer from Australian Racing Tours by Old Haileyburian John McGauran (OH 1996).
OHA members get a 5% discount on all our tours.
Founded in 2012, Australian Racing Tours provides racing enthusiasts access to world-class thoroughbred racing at leading venues across Australia and internationally.
“All our tour packages include quality, centrally located accommodation, welcome functions and events, premium race day hospitality, VIP access to stables and trainers, transfers throughout, plus the services of experienced hosts while enjoying it all in the company of like-minded racing lovers.”
Simply log in or sign up to access your exclusive discount code:
https://oha.org.au/business-directory/australian-racing-tours/
OHA BUSINESS OWNERS: WE WANT YOU!
If you are a business owner, we can drive OHA members to your business. Becoming an OHA Rewards merchant is quick, simple, flexible and free to join. Contact us today to find out more via stayconnected@haileybury.com.au.
The OHA recognises that the non-Melbourne and non-physical based campuses of Haileybury present some unique opportunities and challenges with regards to engagement. Similarly, we recognise that students graduating from Melbourne based campuses may wish to pursue higher education interstate or overseas. As part of an ongoing support campaign, the OHA wishes to support students who need to relocate following graduation for the purposes of study. Applications will open following the release of university offers in December. For more information about the relocation bursary and to apply, please visit: https://oha.org.au/oha-relocation-bursary. Once a Haileyburian, always a Haileyburian.
Kylie Phillips
Development Office Operations Lead
The 8th Celebration of Excellence at the Darwin Convention Centre on December 9 was an opportunity to celebrate all the incredible student achievements in 2025.
In recent news, it was stunning to see the comparison of our Junior School NAPLAN results against other Territory Schools. These outstanding outcomes highlight the positive impact of brilliant teaching, explicit instruction, motivated and engaged students and the support of our community. As an example, the graph below shows how HRS compares by averaging all Year 3 NAPLAN outcomes against other leading NT Schools. Year 3 data include many students who have been at HRS for four years now.
On Thursday, 11 December we received the VCE and ATAR results for our class of 2025 and we are very excited how these will help realise the many post-school destinations that our students have chosen. The results were outstanding!
Important and well-received upgrades to classrooms and buildings have continued apace in 2025 and it is very pleasing that we expect to complete the building of a large indoor multi-purpose activities centre in 2026. This facility will provide air-conditioned sporting comfort for all students and staff and open up a wide range of possibilities for different events outside school hours. We are also planning to repurpose a large building and create a modern innovation hub to encourage digital connection, entrepreneurship and a range of other state-of-the-art subjects and opportunities for our students from next year. The excitement and potential of these projects is being felt by all.
We also welcome some brilliant new educational leaders to HRS for 2026, including Director of Strategic Initiatives, Marc Vegter, from Haileybury Melbourne; Director of Boarding, Tom Ziebell, from Carey Grammar and Head of Middle School, Katherine Ziebell, from Carey Grammar.
Andrew McGregor
Principal, Haileybury Rendall School
As the 2025 school year draws to a close, our Senior School community reflects with pride on a year defined by purpose, hard work and a strong sense of togetherness. Guided by our core values of integrity, fair play and genuine care, we have seen outstanding achievements both in and beyond the classroom.
This year, students have embraced ambitious goals, supported each other, and thrived in an environment where success is built on collaboration and mutual respect. The expansion of co-curricular programs, the launch of new learning facilities, and vibrant arts and sports achievements have provided rich opportunities for all.
Our graduating Class of 2025 exemplified perseverance and leadership, leaving a legacy of optimism and excellence for future students. From impressive academic results to memorable social and community events, their journey has been supported by dedicated staff and families who work together to nurture growth and wellbeing.
Whether on the sports field, the stage, or through service and sustainability projects, our students have displayed character and creativity. Partnerships between home and school have remained central, ensuring every student feels known, challenged and supported.
As we look forward to 2026, we do so with gratitude and enthusiasm, ready to continue our tradition of striving for excellence, cultivating character and building a caring community. Thank you to our students, staff, families and alumni for making 2025 a year to remember.
I would like to thank all Haileybury’s staff and students for the way that they began the 2026 academic year. Term 1A is a chance for students to begin their 2026 studies early and become comfortable in their new classes before heading off on an extended summer break. It takes an enormous amount of organisation and effort to ensure that a new school year is ready to go in November of the previous year; however, Haileybury believes that getting a head start on the new year is of great benefit to our students, particularly those undertaking VCE Units 3 and 4 studies.
As the academic year concludes, I would like to say sincere thanks to you all for your ongoing support of Haileybury.
My best wishes to you all for a safe and happy time away from the usual school routine.
Many Haileybury students and families gathered on the evening of Friday, 5 December to celebrate another successful year at Haileybury. The night also featured prize giving for our very best sportspeople, performers and academics. The quality of the musical performances on the night was outstanding, bearing testament to the strength of Haileybury’s performing arts program.
Over 450 Year 10 students participated in Work Experience placements during Term 4. Work Experience is the short-term placement of secondary school students with employers to provide insights into industry and the workplace. It provides students with the valuable opportunity to: develop employability skills; explore possible career options; understand employer expectations; and increase their self-understanding, maturity, independence and self-confidence. The skills and insights gained during work experience are invaluable, and we are very grateful to the employers who so generously supported our students.
We would like to congratulate the following Year 11 students on being accepted into the Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program for 2027.
Successful applicants of the Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program will become part of a supportive university community and peer network through a tailored program of events and activities. We look forward to working with you over the next two years to help these future leaders reach their potential.
Dr Nicholas Grigsby
Deputy Principal, Head of Senior Schools
In the French Department, Term 1A began with great excitement as the Alliance Française Ceremony was scheduled for the Monday, 17 of November. Three of our outstanding students received awards in several categories, namely:
The evening was filled with poetry, and our students spoke with remarkable elegance. The prestigious ceremony took place at The Capitol, a magnificent venue on Swanston Street. Our students left deeply inspired, and French will always hold a special place in their hearts.
Maud Fugier-Sola
Head of French
In early December, the Boys First Basketball team was one of nearly 230 teams to participate at the Australian School Championships on the Gold Coast. Competing in U20 Division 1 Men, the boys finished the week with victory in the grand final, defeating Newington College (NSW) 64–62 in a hotly contested match. Newington shot the ball extremely well and took an early lead before the Bloods settled and regained the lead at quarter time. Momentum ebbed and flowed, with the lead never getting above five points and with five seconds remaining Newington made a three-pointer to close to a point. Despite extreme pressure and some missed free throws, Haileybury held on to win by two points and secure the title.
Earlier this month, we kicked off our partnership with the Los Angeles Rams NFL Gridiron team. The Rams are one of the most recognisable brands in world sport and we were extremely excited to welcome them to Keysborough where they hosted a Rams Flag training sessions for over 650 Years 5–6 students from across all four campuses. We were lucky enough to welcome the Rams official mascot ‘Rampage,’ who has over 300,000 followers, as well as members of the Rams cheerleading squad who host hundreds of community initiatives each year. This event kicked off our long-term partnership with the Rams who are playing an official game of NFL football in Melbourne in September next year. The Rams are going to support our ambitions to grow NFL Flag, which is a non-contact version of NFL Football for both boys and girls. Who knows, maybe one day leading to a medal for a Haileyburian in this newly introduced Olympic sport.
Haileybury delivered an exceptional showing at the National All Schools Championships, with 10 athletes competing and every one of them progressing to multiple finals, posting personal bests and edging closer to World Junior qualification standards.
Notable performances included Archie’s gold in the 400m, finishing agonizingly close to a World Junior qualifier, alongside Portia’s podium in the 80m hurdles and Jett’s impressive medal in the 1500m, all showcasing tremendous determination and precision in race execution.
Results
Golds – Archie U18 400m & 4x100m
Silvers – Portia U14 80m Hurdles & 4x100m
Bronze – Jett U17 1500m
4th – Jaz U18 Shot Put & Discus
5th – Nate U16 200m Hurdles
5th – Matty U17 400m
6th – Selini U14 400m
6th – Portia U14 Long Jump
6th – Libby U16 3km
6th – Julia U18 200m
7th – Libby U16 2km Steeple
7th – Nate U16 100m Hurdles
8th – Cal U14 400m
Haileybury entered the 5/6 Touch Championships in late November with cross-campus teams playing together for the first time and all four teams got to their Grand Finals. The results were:
Year 5 Girls – Runners Up
Year 5 Boys – State Champions
Year 6 Girls – State Champions
Year 6 Boys – Runners Up
Despite some horrendous weather at times, the players were all brilliant and represented the School with pride. A huge thank you and congratulations to Andrew, Nick, Terry and Shane for all their coaching, enthusiasm and encouragement throughout the day.
Nikola (Year 12 – Keysborough) has been named in the U/20 Young Socceroo's National Squad to play in the SBS Cup in Japan in December. Nikola first joined Haileybury in Year 7 and has been in the Blazer Squad since 2022, adding First team captain responsibilities for the last two seasons. He unfortunately missed most of the 2024 year with a back injury, but over the last twelve months has worked tirelessly, both with the School team under the mentorship of Grant Brebner and his NPL club Melbourne City. The honour of pulling on the green and gold colours is testimony to his skill and determination, and we thank him for his significant contribution to the Haileybury Soccer program. Good luck Nikola.
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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