Haileybury’s outstanding national rankings reflect its commitment to academic excellence and explicit teaching in primary years. Strong attendance rates, supported by staff and community, underpin exceptional literacy and numeracy outcomes. Consistently high performance demonstrates the close correlation between regular attendance and academic success, setting Haileybury among the nation’s leading schools.
Building understanding and empathy
Young people learn best when they are encouraged to look beyond themselves and engage with the world around them. Through social justice learning, students build cultural competence by exploring fairness, inclusion, and the diverse experiences within our community and beyond.
This learning begins with self-awareness. Students reflect on their own identity, values, and viewpoints, while developing an understanding of bias and difference. Over time, they deepen their awareness of social inequities and how exclusion and disadvantage can occur across systems and over time. They also develop the skills needed to engage respectfully with others. Through active listening, thoughtful communication and inclusive collaboration, students build both confidence and compassion, learning how to respond appropriately in a range of contexts.
Importantly, students need opportunities to put this learning into action. Through volunteering and community engagement, they experience the value of contributing their time and talents to support others. These opportunities help develop lasting habits of service and a genuine desire to help those in need.
Social impact in action
The Pre-Senior Social Impact Ventures (SIV) elective provides a clear pathway for students to turn their learning into meaningful action. This elective challenges students to create meaningful change by supporting communities and caring for the environment.
Working in groups, students investigate a social issue such as climate change, education, or social inequality, and design a social enterprise, campaign or initiative. Along the way, they apply design thinking, develop project management skills and strengthen their entrepreneurial mindset.
Recently, Pre-Senior students partnered with Beach Patrol Australia for a beach clean-up. Collecting over 12 kilograms of litter, including more than 600 pieces of soft plastic, they contributed to real-world data linked to protecting marine ecosystems. This hands-on experience reinforced both environmental responsibility and the power of collective action.
Students also engage directly with local organisations. During a visit to The Salvation Army Kingston City, students heard about homelessness and the reality of sleeping rough in the local area, gaining insight into the support provided to those in need.
As part of this visit, students worked in the community garden, planting vegetables that will be used in meals for people experiencing homelessness. The experience prompted genuine reflection, with one student sharing how their understanding of homelessness had shifted, particularly in recognising the scale of the issue within their own community.
Together, these opportunities encourage students to take action, applying their skills and growing awareness to make a genuine impact in their community.
Bronwyn Harrop
Head of Social Justice
West Side Story was a triumph. This classic retelling of Romeo and Juliet transported audiences across all four performances with its passion, spectacle and emotional depth. The electrifying energy of the Jets and Sharks showcased how dance and acting can work in tandem to communicate gang rivalry and tension. Indeed, the choreography, led by the creative vision of Mr Dylan Dickson, elevated the storytelling to another level through vivid and dynamic sequences. ‘Dance at the Gym’ quickly became a cast and audience favourite; nine minutes of breathtaking mambo, dance battles, lifts and colour that brought the stage to life.
Leads Riley and Eva brought a fresh urgency and sincerity to Tony and Maria. Their portrayal of these star-crossed lovers moved audiences deeply; we cared so profoundly for these characters that the final tragic scenes were met with tears and applause in equal measure.
Of course, one of the most enduring and impressive aspects of this musical is its iconic score. Above the action onstage sat a magnificent 32-piece live orchestra, whose presence added extraordinary richness and scale to the production. Mr Robert Latham’s music direction and remarkable attention to detail brought every percussive beat, romantic string line and soaring brass section vividly to life for the audience to both hear and feel.
However, the true heart of the show was its dynamic and generous cast. Led by outstanding Drama Captains Arabella, Tyler, Lia and Riley, this group of young performers embraced every challenge with professionalism, commitment and an enduring sense of play.
In the Drama Department, we often speak about the importance of “serving the show.” That is, contributing to something larger than ourselves. Anyone who experienced the unanimous standing ovations across the final performances could feel that collective spirit. It was a powerful reminder of how art and storytelling can transport us and bring a community together. While the story itself embraces the pathos of tragedy, the experience shared by the cast, orchestra, crew and audiences was nothing short of uplifting.
Nicole Smith
Head of Drama and Theatre Studies, Director of West Side Story
Anzac Day, and the ceremonies that formally recognise the sacrifice made by those who served in times of conflict, remains one of the most important occasions on the Australian calendar. As I have often reflected in previous Insight newsletters, music often plays a unique and powerful role in community life, not only in celebration and entertainment, but also in remembrance, ceremony and commemoration. This year’s Melbourne Anzac Day City March again highlighted the important role musicians play in helping communities honour tradition and service.
Haileybury was proudly represented in this year’s City parade by two outstanding ensembles: Haileybury Drum and Bugle Corps. Both groups performed with great professionalism, respect and pride throughout the event, representing the School and wider community with distinction.
What stood out just as strongly as the students’ performances was the extraordinary support shown by the Haileybury community. Events on this scale require a tremendous collective effort, and the goodwill shown by parents and friends played an enormous part in the success of the day. Families managed early morning starts, transport across Melbourne, parking, uniforms, instruments and countless logistical details, all while encouraging and supporting their children to participate in such a significant civic occasion. The generosity and spirit shown by our families reflected the strength of the Haileybury community and reinforced the deep sense of pride that exists within the School.
The Haileybury Bugle Corps was led by brass tutor Mr David Robinson. A Corporal in the Army Reserve, Mr Robinson has performed the ‘Last Post’ and ‘Reveille’ at the Melbourne Shrine Dawn Service and is regularly involved in AFL and A-League Anzac commemorations. This year he performed as the bugler at the Richmond v Melbourne Anzac Eve match, and the Sunday St Kilda v West Coast match (before travelling to Keysborough for rehearsals with the orchestra for our West Side Story production). His dedication to both music and service continues to provide an outstanding example to our students.
Haileybury Pipes & Drums, led by Daniel Staley, again demonstrated why this ensemble is held in such high regard both within and beyond the School community. Having travelled internationally and achieved success in numerous competitions, the ensemble brought a strong sense of tradition, discipline and reverence to the parade. Their contribution to Anzac Day was deeply moving and a source of great pride for Haileybury.
The day ultimately served as a reminder of the remarkable culture that exists within our community. Students performed with maturity and commitment, staff gave generously of their time and expertise, and parents provided unwavering support behind the scenes.
Thank you and well done to all.
Rod Marshall
Director of Performing Arts & Head of Haileybury Music
Congratulations to Panya for the incredible achievement of being recognised with an Honourable Mention for the 13–15 year old category for the painting My Brother.
In 2026, the Young Archies competition received more than 4,350 submissions, resulting in 70 finalists and 20 honourable mentions. Artworks receiving an honourable mention are displayed online on the Art Gallery of New South Wales website and, since 2014, at Sydney’s SH Ervin Gallery. You can see Panya’s work amongst the finalists here: Young Archie competition finalists 2026 | Art Gallery of NSW
This is a portrait of my brother, based on a photo taken one sunny day when he smiled at the camera. I wanted to show the warmth he brings into my life. While painting him, I focused on the light and shadow of his glasses on his face. I aimed to show the confidence in his expression. This painting is my way to celebrate who he is: someone who is thoughtful and will always be there when I need him.
Please keep an eye out for the next opportunity to enter the Young Archie Competition in late November 2026.
The Haileybury Unit 3 Visual Communication Design students from the City, Berwick, Brighton, Keysborough and Pangea campuses recently had the opportunity to visit the inspiring 2026 Top Designs exhibition at Melbourne Museum and tour the studio of Architectus, a leading architectural design practice based in Melbourne’s CBD.
At the Top Designs exhibition, students explored exemplar 2025 VCE Visual Communication Design Units 3 and 4 folios. This provided valuable insight into high quality design work and helped students develop a deeper understanding of the design process, supporting them as they begin developing their own folios.
In the afternoon, students visited the Architectus studio, where they were given the opportunity to experience a professional design environment and learn more about contemporary architectural practice. Architects from the firm shared their personal career journeys and discussed the diverse pathways available within the design industry. Students were particularly engaged by discussions surrounding recent major projects, including the Haileybury Brighton Year 9 Building and a Performing Arts development, as well as thought provoking conversations about sustainability, the future of architecture, and the increasingly important role design thinking will play in future careers.
A highlight of the excursion was the guided studio tour, which gave students a behind the scenes look at the day-to-day operations of an architectural practice. Many students left feeling inspired, asking thoughtful questions and beginning to see architecture as an exciting and achievable career pathway.
We are also pleased to share that Architectus has expressed interest in offering a limited number of work experience opportunities for Haileybury students.
Rachelle Rae
Head of Visual Arts Senior School
The Pipes & Drums began Term 2 with a busy and meaningful week of Anzac Day services.
At the commencement of Term 2, the band wore their ceremonial uniform to perform at the annual Anzac Day service at Rendall Oval in Keysborough. The band opened proceedings and stood at attention as the fallen Old Haileyburians who served in the war were named and honoured for their service.
Our Brighton-based pipers also performed at the Anzac Day service at the Castlefield campus, delivering an emotional rendition of ‘Amazing Grace’ to commence the ceremony.
On Friday, the Pipes & Drums formed a Guard of Honour for the Boys Firsts home football match, the first of the season. We always value the opportunity to support Haileybury’s sporting teams and hope our performance added to the energy and excitement of the game.
On Anzac Day itself, the band assembled at the Keysborough campus at 6.30 am before departing for the annual parade in the city. The 1.2 kilometre march included several students participating for the first time. We are honoured to take part in this significant and historic event each year.
Our Senior Band is now gearing up for the much-anticipated Haileybury Ball on 23 May. Set to open the evening, the band will bring a fresh and exciting repertoire that promises to set the tone for a fantastic night. With plenty of energy, new music and hours of preparation behind them, our students are ready to deliver a standout performance and make this year’s Ball truly unforgettable.
Daniel Staley
Director of Pipes & Drums
Our school has been filled with mums, aunties, grandmas and special friends at the many events that have been hosted across the School, whether you joined us in the Middle School for cupcakes and coffee, the Early Learning Centre to hear beautiful singing and spend time in classrooms, chose to plant a succulent, or indulged in a hand massage in the Junior School, there was plenty on offer to show the special people in our lives how appreciated they are.
A big shout out to Hannah Crook and Tara Costello for their coordination of the Mother’s Day Market and thank you to the large number of community members who packed gifts and volunteered at the market to support our students in purchasing a gift for Sunday.
Our HPFC president, Casey Harris, hosted a fabulous Mother’s Day Lunch, on Friday, 8 May, with a photobooth, live music, DJ, acknowledgement of our Year 12 mums and a fabulous raffle. A big thank you goes to Casey and all the community members who donated time and items, and turned up to party. We hope everyone had a special day on Sunday.
On Tuesday, 27 April, we were honoured to host a Future of Sport at Haileybury event led by our Head of Sport, Matt Dwyer, our Head of Coaches, Nathan Burke, and a panel of exceptional coaches, namely Grant Brebner, Melissa Barbieri, David Powell, Brad Hodge, Matthew Lloyd, Nicole Callinan and Craig Mottram. Each of them is a superstar: these players and coaches performing at the highest levels including the Olympics, in Australian and International teams and now guiding our Haileybury students.
Matt shared the Strategy for Sport at Haileybury, discussing the five personas of students participating in sport, which are not set and forget, but can change for a child based on the season of sport, their social context or age. The five personas are: Aspiring Stars driven by performance and progression; Team Player driven by competition and belonging; Wellness Seeker driven by health and lifestyle; Social Set driven by fun and connection; and Still Finding My Way driven by exploration. Each of these personas is recognised and catered for through our sporting program.
Nathan hosted our coaches and led discussions around the sport program we deliver, the connections that are made with students, the theme of team, and the insight our coaches have due to the inclusion of teaching staff in the sport program so students are well supported both on and off the field. Nathan also discussed that success in sport encompasses four areas (connectedness, striving, capability and fun) and that the differing levels of teams or intention of the students determines which of those four are the highest focus at any point in time.
This term we are fortunate that our Year 5 and 6 AFL Wednesday competitions and games will be hosted at Castlefield. On Wednesday, 29 April the first round was held with our Boys Middle School team who were cheered on in the first half of the game by our Year 7-12 students. The team held on for a victory and were thrilled to have been supported by the older students in their first game.
On the most superb autumn day, Wednesday, 13 May, saw our Year 5 and 6 Girls team play on Clark Oval against Caulfield Grammar. Playing in front of a crowd of Castlefield students from ELC through to Year 12 and an enthusiastic parent cheer squad, the girls played exceptionally well and convincingly won the game.
We will be hosting regular AFL or AFLW Year 5 and 6 games on Clark Oval during Wednesday APS competition, and the teams look forward to lots of cheering from supporters. Parents are always welcome to join us.
We had a wonderful time celebrating Mother’s Day in the ELC, welcoming mums and special caregivers to join their children for a morning of play and connection.
Families enjoyed exploring experiences together, singing songs and sharing special handmade cards and gifts. It was lovely to see children proudly show their mums around and spend quality time together in their learning environment.
Thank you to all who joined us and helped make the day so special.
“I love to cuddle mummy. Cuddle means love.” – Kayla
“I love my mummy because she is the best and I love her.” – Viren
“I love my mummy ‘cause every time she brings me to school, to Haileybury.” – Frankie
Technology is part of children’s lives from a young age, making eSafety an important focus in early childhood. It involves teaching simple, age-appropriate skills like asking before using devices, and telling a trusted adult if something feels wrong.
Educators support this by modelling safe use and providing guided, child-friendly experiences. Working together with families helps reinforce safe habits at home and at school. By introducing eSafety early, we help children build the skills to use technology safely and responsibly. For more information, please take a look at the display in the ELC corridor, and you can also find lots of helpful resources here.
It was lovely to have so many gorgeous mums, nannas, aunts and special friends join the Junior School in the classrooms. From ‘minute to win it’ games and hand massages, to potting plants and photo booths, there was something for everyone. The children loved exploring the classroom activities and hosting their grown-ups.
In a school like Haileybury, the students love to be a part of what’s next, whether that’s the ELC children coming and speaking at a Junior School assembly, or the Junior School students being the target audience of the Middle School Maker’s Market. Each part of the School has their own community, but we recognise we are part of the broader Castlefield community too. With many siblings stretched over the different areas, there is always an interest in the opportunities that come with each stage of a Haileybury education.
This term, our theme is Belonging, and we have been exploring what it means to feel connected, included and valued within our school community. One of the best ways we build belonging is by getting involved in community events, celebrating together and supporting one another. These moments help strengthen friendships, create lasting memories and remind us that everyone has an important place in our school.
Last week, we were thrilled to host our wonderful Mother’s Day celebration. It was fantastic to see so many special mums, guardians and special friends join us for a morning filled with smiles, laughter and appreciation, not to mention caffeine and cupcakes. Events like these are a wonderful opportunity for students to show gratitude and celebrate the important people in their lives. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the event such a success.
Belonging is further strengthened when we show up, support one another and take part in shared experiences, which is why attendance at the upcoming Cross Country Carnival on Tuesday, 19 May at our Berwick campus is so important, as it provides every student with the opportunity to celebrate House spirit, participate with pride, cheer on their mates and build stronger connections within our Middle School community.
We are also excited about our upcoming Open Classes, where families are invited to come along and see learning in action, be it algebra, a drama performance, narrative writing or painting a portrait, we look forward to your involvement. Students are looking forward to sharing their classroom experiences, achievements and learning goals with you. Stay tuned for these dates and times that will be sent via the app.
As we continue through the term, we encourage all students to embrace belonging by showing kindness, giving new things a go and being a supportive, caring friend to others.
Katrina Manson
Head of Castlefield (Brighton)
A huge thank you to everyone who pitched in and made Mother’s Day week such a memorable one, especially during our bustling Mother’s Day Market. Special thanks go out to Hannah Crook and Tara Costello for their outstanding efforts, as well as to the whole team who helped deliver a fabulous Mother’s Day Lunch at Encore St Kilda Beach. We are already excited and full of ideas for next year’s event.
It was also fantastic to see so many dads at the recent Father’s Catch Up. What a great turnout. We hope to see even more dads next time, so keep an eye on the myHaileybury app for upcoming dates and reminders.
I encourage everyone to join us for our next HPFC Meeting on Tuesday, 2 June at 7.30 pm in Sholto Black. This will be a relaxed and friendly evening with drinks and nibbles provided. It is an ideal opportunity to share your feedback, connect with other parents and join in if daytime meetings have not suited your schedule. Please RSVP here so we can cater accordingly.
I look forward to seeing many of you again soon.
Casey Harris
President, Haileybury Parents & Friends Castlefield
Parking around the property can, at times, be difficult. Our priority is the safety and wellbeing of our Haileybury community. Parents leaving via the South Road exit, please take care when turning onto South Road, particularly as the pedestrian crossing is so close to the exit.
Remember that all exits from the School to Villeroy and Rouen Streets close at 6.00 pm nightly. If you are attending an evening function, we encourage you to park on South Road and enter through the front gate.
There is no drop-off/pick-up zone in Rouen Street, with parking restrictions in place along one side at busy school start and end times.
There are clearly signed two-minute parking spaces outside our Villeroy Street gate. These should be used as a ‘kiss-and-go’ zone rather than for disembarking from your car. Cars should not be left unattended.
Families are encouraged to use the roundabout via the South Road entrance as the preferred drop-off and pick-up location.
Please be considerate of the residents in the streets surrounding our School.
I love you, Mum
For Mother’s Day, the ELC recently celebrated and gave thanks to the mothers and significant women in their lives. The morning was filled with smiles, as well as activities shared by children, mothers and significant people and included sewing, bracelet making and sketching in our ground floor assembly area. A photo booth was also created by the children.
Having worked hard on their gifts of appreciation for the special people who do so much for them, the children were excited to present their mothers or special people with beautiful keepsakes. Thank you to everyone who joined us in this celebration.
We love to read
The Pre-Prep children are developing their skills and interests in blending and segmenting. As they continue learning the remaining initial sounds through a range of games, activities and intentional teaching moments, the children are being presented with opportunities to strengthen their phonemic awareness.
The children have been reading books by Julia Donaldson and, together, have been identifying rhyming words and displaying them within their classroom. This learning has consolidated their rhyme recognition, further strengthening their overall phonological awareness.
Leap into Storytime with Luna Roo: The Kangaroo Baller
The excitement is certainly building as we look forward to the return of National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) in 2026. Coordinated each year by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA), this very special event unites communities nationwide through their shared love of reading. At a set time, children across the country gather in libraries, schools, preschools and homes to enjoy the same Australian picture book together.
At City Campus, we are very fortunate to have Ms Kuhne, Head of Library Services – City, lead this special occasion. Junior School students will come together under the fair lights on Level 3, alongside our ELC children, to share in this memorable experience.
This year’s featured book is Luna Roo: The Kangaroo Baller, written by Adam Jackson and Adrian Lloyd, and illustrated by Jake Minton.
Junior School House Cross Country
Our Junior School House Cross Country took place in the first week of Term 2 and was a wonderful afternoon filled with energy and House spirit. Set in the beautiful Flagstaff Gardens alongside our City campus, students ran distances of up to 1.6 kilometres, showing great determination and enthusiasm. We were lucky to have such lovely weather, and it was fantastic to see every student give their best and cross the finish line. A big thank you to our parent community for coming along to cheer, and to the Haileybury City Parents and Friends helpers for organising the much-appreciated lolly bags to help students refuel after their run. Congratulations to Elliot House for taking out the overall win.
Celebrating mothers and significant women
On Friday, 8 May, the Junior School loved welcoming students’ mums and significant women to our campus for a fun and engaging morning together. There was plenty to do, with everyone crafting paper mosaics, meticulously folding origami masterpieces, and creating paper bouquets. They left with their own functional travel pouches to take home, each one filled with care and made especially for mums by their child. We wrapped things up with a simple but sweet touch, sending everyone home with a matcha tea bag and a note that read “I love you so matcha.”
Makers Market
The Makers Market was a vibrant showcase of the creativity and entrepreneurship of our Year 8 students. As part of the StartUp program, students designed and constructed an impressive array of products and experiences. Presented in unique stalls, visitors to the market enjoyed sweet treats, engaging games, handmade creations and a variety of other student-designed concepts. Students demonstrated exceptional dedication as they built their businesses from the ground up, developing essential skills in teamwork, problem solving and critical and creative thinking. Every stage of the process resulted in an event that truly celebrated innovation and enterprise.
Middle School mothers and significant women film afternoon
Middle School students celebrated Mother’s Day by honouring their mothers and the significant women in their lives. Taking place at Hoyts in Melbourne Central, students and their guests attended a private screening of Future Council. This inspiring documentary, created by award-winning Australian filmmaker Damon Gameau, followed eight children as they travelled across Europe, encouraging business leaders to confront the world’s most urgent environmental challenges. The film’s message provided an opportunity for reflection on leadership, advocacy and the impact of positive change. It was a memorable afternoon in which the students and their mothers and significant women were able to spend quality time together.
Poetry in action
Year 7 students were treated to an engaging theatrical experience through Poetry in Action, a performance that brought the world of poetry to life. The presentation entertained the audience with a storyline of mistaken identity and unexpected romance, blending humour with literary exploration. Students experienced a wide range of poetry forms, from traditional sonnets to the energetic slam poetry. The performance introduced a variety of poetic techniques and encouraged students to appreciate poetry’s versatility and emotional depth.
Year 8 Drama Performance
The Year 8 Drama Performance was a true testament to the power of teamwork and creativity. Within the Drama elective Collaboration to Creation, students began with the stimulus ‘Loneliness in a Crowded World,’ and from this starting point, they brainstormed and developed themes and ideas that they explored through performance. The process required them to apply the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the semester, considering all elements of production such as blocking, staging, lighting, sound, costumes and props. Over four weeks, students worked together to shape their ideas into meaningful performances, ultimately presenting their work to an audience. This experience not only showcased their artistic and technical abilities but also strengthened their confidence and understanding of theatre as a collaborative art form.
Caroline Merrick
Head of City
We hope everyone has had a great start of term. We wanted to take the time to remind everyone to check the calendar in the app for key events parents can attend. There was a lovely Anzac Day Commemoration at Flagstaff recently that families were invited to join. If you are unsure if parents are welcome, please email hpfcity@haileybury.com.au.
We look forward to seeing you at the Middle School Trivia night and Junior School Board-game bonanza coming up.
Michelle White & Andrea Livingston
Co-Presidents, Haileybury Parents & Friends City
Congratulations to Year 11 Haileybury Berwick student Jett on his selection to represent Australia at the 2026 Oceania Athletics Under-18 Championships in Darwin. This is a wonderful achievement, and we wish Jett all the very best for his events.
We look forward to welcoming the many ELC–Year 12 parents who have booked tickets to see Dr Brad Marshall - The Unplugged Psychologist on Wednesday 20 May, 6.00 pm – 7.00 pm. For over a decade, Dr Marshall has been helping families find a balance between healthy screen time and problematic overuse by providing real strategies with concrete examples. Please reserve your seats here.
Edrington recently hosted three wonderful Mother’s Day events. The ELC children enjoyed every minute of their time with their mothers doing activities together, while the Junior School event brought out the competitive spirit of families during bingo games, quizzes and Kahoot matches, followed by a delicious morning tea. Middle School mothers and their children also enjoyed a special breakfast together and the opportunity to spend quality time catching up before the school day began.
Mother’s Day is a meaningful celebration in the ELC, providing children with the opportunity to show love, appreciation and gratitude for the important women in their lives. Throughout the week, children engaged in a variety of experiences including creating handmade cards and gifts, painting, singing songs and sharing stories about their families. These activities encouraged children to express their emotions, develop creativity and strengthen their communication.
Our Mother’s Day event also enabled children to proudly share their program experiences within the room. Mums were invited to spend quality time with their child in a relaxed, warm and welcoming atmosphere where they participated in fun interactive activities, enjoy conversations and create special memories with one another.
Celebrating Mother’s Day in early childhood education is important because it promotes a strong sense of belonging and community. It also teaches children about kindness, empathy, respect and the importance of showing appreciation for others. These positive experiences support children’s emotional and social development during the important early years of learning.
Emotional regulation
Just like academics, social and emotional skills need to be explicitly taught to children in order for them to develop good friendships and regulate their emotions. Since the beginning of the year, we have run sessions with our year levels in the Junior School on emotional regulation. Students have learnt:
Our next step is to learn about friendship fires: what do we do when friends have disagreements and how do we solve this problem? Students will be role playing different situations and using steps to tell their friend how they are feeling when they are in the yellow or red zone in an appropriate way. We will also be discussing ‘mean on purpose’ versus ‘giving the benefit of the doubt’ in situations that occur, i.e., let’s look at it from someone else’s perspective. Finally, we discuss friendships circles and what this looks like.
Mother’s Day Breakfast
A warm thank you to all the mothers and special friends who joined us for our Middle School Breakfast. It was a huge success and the students really enjoyed spending some quality family time with you.
Year 8 Makers Market
The Year 8 Makers Market was a fantastic event showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurial skills of our students following their Startup unit on entrepreneurship. The BMS quad was buzzing with vibrant stalls, enthusiastic sellers, and eager patrons from Junior and Middle School, creating a fun and energetic atmosphere for all involved.
Middle School examinations
Years 7 and 8 students completed their End of Semester 1 Examinations. It was pleasing to see the commitment and initiative the Year 8 students demonstrated as they worked towards their exams. Year 7 students sat their first examinations to complete their studies in Geography and semester-based subjects. Staff worked hard to teach and guide all students about the most efficient and effective ways to prepare for and sit examinations.
House Cross Country
We are excited to welcome campuses from across the wider Haileybury community as we host the Middle School Cross Country. Events like this are a great opportunity for students and staff to come together, build connections, and celebrate being part of the wider Haileybury family. We look forward to a fantastic day filled with teamwork, encouragement, shared experiences, and plenty of School spirit.
Jeanette Rawlings
Head of Edrington (Berwick)
I hope you all loved the very carefully curated gifts your children purchased for you at our Mothers’ Day Stall. The Mothers’ Day stall is such a highlight for us in the HPFE, and the children’s faces light up with so much excitement when they see the items available to purchase. We couldn’t run it without the help of our amazing volunteers, so once again, thank you to those who helped set up and run our event. Congratulations also to the winner of the HPFE hamper at the Middle School Mothers’ Day Breakfast, Kate Haakman.
Every Wednesday you will find Jenelle and Amphil at the SHUS from 8.30am to 10.45am. 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
Newlands has had a wonderful start to Term 2 and basked in glorious autumnal sunshine at the start, with all students and staff happily settled into productive academic and co-curricular routines. The weather has turned just in time for an initiative we are proud to participate in again in the Big Freeze to raising vital funds for MND and to help eradicate the Beast.
This year we have socks and beanies that can be purchased and collected from the Newlands Reception.
https://events.humanitix.com/big-freeze-12-beanies/tickets
KidsROAR
Our Newlands ELC children recently had the opportunity to participate in engaging KidsROAR sessions, while parents were invited to attend an informative online session beforehand to gain a deeper understanding of the program and its purpose. KidsROAR is an early childhood initiative focused on building emotional resilience, confidence and positive wellbeing in young children through play-based activities, storytelling and practical strategies. During the sessions, our children explored ways to recognise and express their feelings, develop self-regulation skills, and build strong, respectful relationships with others. Providing parents with insight into the program allowed for a shared understanding of the language and techniques being introduced, helping to strengthen consistency between home and their children’s learning environment.
ELC Mother's Day
We were delighted to celebrate our mothers and special friends event across two wonderful days, creating meaningful opportunities for connection within our Newlands ELC community. Our fabulous educators led engaging Zumba and yoga sessions, inviting children and their special guests to move, laugh and participate together in new and fun ways. These shared experiences provided a beautiful opportunity for our children to proudly include their loved ones in their learning environment, strengthening their sense of confidence and belonging.
Year 2 String Recital
We are excited to present the Newlands Junior String Recital, taking place on Tuesday, 2 June in Aikman Hall from 2.30 pm – 3.30 pm.
The upcoming recital promises to be a standout moment of the term for our Year 2 students, as they step onto the big stage for the first time with their string instruments.
For many, this marks a significant and memorable milestone, and the sense of pride and accomplishment will be evident in every performance.
We warmly encourage families and friends to join us in supporting the students at what is sure to be a joyful celebration of their musical growth and learning.
There is no doubt the experience will leave them inspired and eager for future opportunities to perform.
Junior School in Action - literacy
Parents and guardians of Junior School students are warmly invited to attend our Junior School in Action: Literacy sessions on Wednesday, 17 June, from 8.35 am – 9.35 am.
This engaging event provides a wonderful opportunity to step inside the classroom and experience firsthand the literacy teaching and learning that takes place each day at Newlands.
During the session, visitors will also gain a deeper understanding of how literacy is embedded across the Junior School, helping students make meaningful connections in their learning.
There will be an opportunity to see students actively engaged in their learning, demonstrating the routines, structures and strategies that support their growth as capable and confident learners.
We look forward to welcoming you into our classrooms and sharing the vibrant literacy culture that is such an important part of life at Newlands Junior School.
A great Term 2
It has been a positive Term 2, with Middle School students returning refreshed after a well-earned break and ready to embrace new challenges. The renewed energy across the campus has been evident, with students quickly settling back into routines and engaging enthusiastically in their learning. Year 8 students are set to complete their Semester 1 exams and commencing Semester 2, approaching this new phase with focus and determination. This strong start has set a confident and focused tone for the term ahead.
Makers Market
The Makers Market was another fantastic showcase of creativity, teamwork and entrepreneurial spirit across the Middle School at Newlands this term. Students worked in groups to design and run their own stalls, managing sales and engaging with customers throughout the day.
The event ran smoothly, with stalls set up in a professional and organised manner. Students demonstrated responsibility by maintaining engaging stalls and working collaboratively, contributing to a vibrant and positive atmosphere across the School. The creativity and effort shown by students made the day a great success.
Beyond the event itself, the Makers Market provided students with valuable opportunities to develop key entrepreneurial skills, including problem-solving, financial literacy, communication and innovation. These real-world experiences help build confidence and encourage students to think creatively and independently.
Dr Stephan Muller
Acting Head of Newlands (Keysborough)
Friday, 29 May – 2.00pm to 4.00pm
Term 2 signals the change over in uniform from Summer to Winter.
Please note the below unform is required to be worn:
Amy Ching
President, Haileybury Parents & Friends Keysborough
The Old Haileyburian Association is proud to launch Haileybury Voices 2026, a new podcast dedicated to the stories, insights and experiences that define our global alumni community.
More than just a podcast, Haileybury Voices goes beyond the blazer to explore the journeys of Old Haileyburians, the lessons they have learnt, and the values that continue to connect us long after school.
Hosted by OHA Council members Pavneet Arneja and Shankar Pillai (both OH 2006), the series brings thoughtful, authentic conversations to the forefront, celebrating the people who shape and strengthen our community.
Episode 1 features Russell Davidson (OH 1986), Director of Development and Alumni Relations, whose enduring connection to Haileybury exemplifies leadership, service and legacy. A driving force behind the Old Haileyburian Association and the Haileybury Foundation, Russell reflects on his journey from student to steward of one of the world’s leading alumni networks, sharing insights shaped not only by his professional life, but also by his pursuits as an Ironman finisher and long-time football umpire.
Listen to Russell Davidson (OH 1986)
Episode 2 features Ben Sze (OH 2002), Co-Founder of Edrolo and Co-CEO of Teacher’s Buddy. Ben offers a candid reflection on his path from Haileybury to the forefront of education technology, exploring the realities of entrepreneurship, leadership and growth. His story brings an important perspective on resilience, mental health and the challenge of balancing ambition with wellbeing, themes that resonate across all stages of the Haileyburian journey.
Episode 3 features Monique Mulcahy (OH 2013), an internationally recognised filmmaker whose work has captivated audiences. From her early creative beginnings at Haileybury to award-winning success behind the camera, Monique shares her journey of finding her voice through film and the power of storytelling. This is an inspiring conversation for students, alumni and anyone carving out their own creative path.
Listen to Monique Mulcahy (OH 2013)
Whether you are a current student or a lifelong member of the Haileybury community, Haileybury Voices invites you to reconnect, reflect and be inspired by the stories shaping our shared legacy. New episodes will be released monthly, featuring more inspiring conversations from across the Haileybury community.
As we celebrate alumni stories and achievements through Haileybury Voices, we also invite the community to recognise the next generation of outstanding Old Haileyburians.
Nominations are now open for the OHA Outstanding Young Alumni Awards which are presented each year across five different fields of expertise: Arts, Business, Sport, STEM and Community.
Nominees must have graduated from Haileybury within the past twelve years and have made significant achievements in their field of endeavour, exemplifying the best attributes of youth in today’s world.
Submit your nomination today and help celebrate the next generation of outstanding Old Haileyburians via the nomination form.
Please explore all our programs and services via the OHA website.
The OHA Office is here to support all members of our community, and we warmly encourage our alumni to stay connected. Please feel free to reach out via stayconnected@haileybury.com.au or contact me on 03 9904 6615.
Kylie Phillips
Development Office Operations Lead
The beginning of Term 2 has seen our Pre-Senior students build purposefully on the foundation of belonging established in Term 1, as we now turn our attention to the key pillar of independence. This is a significant and exciting phase of the journey, with students beginning to make informed decisions about their future pathways, supported closely by Haileybury’s extensive Senior School network.
Last Tuesday, students attended an engaging and informative presentation led by our Teaching and Learning, and Careers teams, where they were introduced to the breadth of opportunities available to them. From subject selection and university pathways to international study and future careers, students gained valuable insight into the possibilities ahead. This was further strengthened by our Heads of Department, who provided clear guidance on subject choices as students begin considering their three-year VCE program. Families will now have received detailed Pathways and Programs information, and we strongly encourage open and collaborative conversations at home to ensure each student feels confident in selecting a pathway that best suits their strengths, interests and aspirations.
To support this important process, every Pre-Senior student will meet individually with their respective Head of Senior School over the coming weeks. These conversations are an invaluable opportunity to review subject preferences and map out a considered and balanced program. At Haileybury, our approach to subject selection is grounded in experience and data-informed practice. Our priority is ensuring each student is positioned to achieve their very best outcomes and to leave with the strongest possible results and future opportunities.
The upcoming Future Ready Festival on Tuesday, 12 May, will provide direct access to universities, industry professionals, careers practitioners and organisations, offering students a chance to engage in meaningful conversations about life beyond Haileybury and the pathways that lead there.
We also begin preparations for the Explore and Expeditions program, the cornerstone of the Pre-Senior experience and our most powerful vehicle for developing independence. Families will have received communication regarding the upcoming online briefing on Monday, 18 May at 6.00 pm, where key information and guidance will be shared to support students in preparing for their respective trips.
Finally, it has been wonderful to see the strong start to the APS/AGSV sporting season. We congratulate all students on their efforts in the opening round, and particularly those selected in First teams. Whether competing at the highest level or simply embracing the opportunity to be active and connected, we are proud of the way our students represent Haileybury with energy, respect and integrity.
Year 12 Business Management students recently attended an excursion to Yakult Australia, gaining valuable insight into the real-world application of operations management theory studied in Units 3 and 4.
During the visit, students observed the production process of Yakult’s probiotic drink, allowing them to connect classroom concepts such as inputs, processes and outputs to a live manufacturing environment. They saw how raw materials, including water, skim milk powder, and the unique Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain, are transformed through highly automated processes into a finished product ready for distribution.
The excursion highlighted key operational strategies, including quality control, efficiency and the use of technology. Students learnt how strict hygiene standards and continuous monitoring ensure product consistency, reinforcing their understanding of quality management practices. The role of automation and specialised equipment also demonstrated how businesses improve efficiency while maintaining high standards.
Overall, the experience provided students with a practical understanding of how theoretical concepts are applied in a real business setting. It deepened their knowledge of operations management and gave them a clearer perspective on how businesses like Yakult produce goods on a large scale while meeting quality and customer expectations.
On Wednesday, 29 April, our smallest and tallest Haileybury students came together under blue skies for a truly heart‑warming Teddy Bear Picnic.
Set on the Newlands oval at the front of the School, our Pre‑Prep students and Year 12s shared play lunch, stories and plenty of smiles as they read together, alongside a delightful collection of fluffy teddy bears that were lovingly brought in to be donated to charity.
The morning unfolded beautifully, beginning with snacks and storytelling and ending in laughter as the teddy bears took part in a much‑anticipated race, guided hand‑in‑hand by both our Pre‑Prep students and Year 12s. It was a simple moment made special by togetherness, sunshine and shared joy.
Sincere thanks to Ms Pontikis, along with our ELC and Facilities teams, for generously sharing their space and helping to create such a carefree and memorable experience. Most of all, thank you for giving our senior students the chance to feel like little kids again.
Overall, we collected over 100 toys, now making their way to Monash Children’s Hospital to bring smiles and stories to even more children.
Excitement is building across Pre-Senior as families receive invitations for this year’s Explore & Expeditions program. With more than 500 Pre-Senior students preparing to journey across Victoria, Australia and the globe, this program remains a cornerstone of the Haileybury experience. Whether hiking the Larapinta Trail, exploring ancient temples in Cambodia, or snorkelling over Ningaloo Reef, each itinerary has been carefully designed to inspire personal growth, resilience and a sense of global citizenship.
Families are reminded to read the documents attached to their invitations carefully, as they contain essential information on itineraries, packing lists, behavioural expectations, visas and key dates. Over the coming weeks, students will take part in structured preparation sessions with their teachers and peers. These are opportunities not only to learn the practicalities of their journey, but also to reset relationships, develop teamwork and prepare for new challenges. Time and again, I have seen students return from these experiences with greater confidence, maturity and new friendships.
The subject selection process will begin in Term 2 for students in Years 9, 10 and 11.
We are delighted to announce the Senior School Subject Expo, live and in person at Keysborough Senior School. The event will take place from 3.00 pm – 6.30 pm on Tuesday, 19 May in the Langford Pavilion and Music Annex.
From the wonders of science to the enchanting realms of literature, the intricacies of mathematics to the vibrant tapestries of history and the creative arts, there are subjects for everyone, and we invite you to speak directly with educators to ensure every subject you select heeds your needs and passions.
It may be helpful to visit VTAC (the centralised admissions centre for most undergraduate university and TAFE courses) and the VCAA (the body that sets guidelines for what students from Prep to Year 12 learn in Victorian schools). Please remember that you can always make an appointment for yourself and your child with one of our Careers advisors to discuss these matters. Your child’s Head of House or relevant Head of Pre-Senior can help you make these appointments.
Dr Nicholas Grigsby
Deputy Principal, Head of Senior Schools
Haileybury Pangea’s Senior School Community Connection Day brought Years 10–12 students together in the city for a relaxed afternoon of bowling and connection. It was a great opportunity to meet face-to-face, build friendships, and enjoy time together outside the online classroom. The event reinforced the importance of community at Pangea, giving students space to socialise, connect across year levels, and strengthen their sense of belonging. We thank Head of House Natasha Eshuis for bringing this event to life, as well as the many staff who supported this wonderful opportunity for our students.
Sports Webinar Series
Haileybury Pangea’s Sports Webinar Series is a dynamic initiative designed to strengthen connection, engagement and a sense of belonging among student athletes. Led by Head of House Natasha Eshuis, Head of Sport Matthew Dwyer and Head of Coaching Nathan Burke, these webinars bring together students and leading voices from the world of sport to explore high-performance pathways, wellbeing and personal development.
Each session features experienced athletes, coaches and industry professionals who share their insights, stories and practical advice, offering students valuable exposure beyond traditional training environments. Topics range from performance and recovery to leadership, resilience and goal setting, supporting both athletic and personal growth.
The series also plays a key role in building a connected Haileybury sporting community and linking Haileybury Pangea’s student athletes with Old Haileyburians and key sport leaders in the School. Through authentic voices and real-world stories, this series reinforces Haileybury Pangea’s commitment to developing well-rounded, confident and connected student athletes.
Joanna Baker
Head of Campus
APS/AGSV Summer Sport this year was a landmark season, with Grand Finals being introduced across both Girls and Boys First competitions for the first time in history (previously premierships were awarded to the team that finished on top of the ladder after the home and away season). This year, Haileybury teams kicked off the season back in November 2025, competing in 11 competitions. Come Grand Final weekend, we were extremely excited to be competing in eight premiership matches, the highest of any APS/AGSV school. This was truly an outstanding achievement that reflects the commitment, resilience and teamwork shown by our athletes throughout the season. Regardless of the results, it promised to be a truly memorable weekend.
From those eight grand finals, our students delivered when it mattered most, securing five premierships. This is an exceptional return and speaks to the strength of our coaching programs, the dedication of our players, and the support provided by families and the wider school community. Each team demonstrated the values we aim to instill: hard work, humility and a willingness to compete with pride.
Beyond the results, what stands out most is the way our students represented the School. Whether in training, travelling to fixtures, or competing in high‑pressure moments, they consistently displayed fair play and respect for opponents, officials and teammates. These qualities matter just as much as the scoreboard.
Congratulations to all those who played in finals and particularly the winning teams:
Premiers
Runners Up
These results, which many believe is the most successful season of sport in the history of the School, are a collective achievement that reflects the strength of our entire sporting community. Well done to all.
The APS /AGSV competition is widely regarded as one of (if not, the) strongest school sporting competitions in the country. In this context, to be named in the representative team for your sport of choice is a huge honour and deserves acknowledgment. We would like to congratulate the following 28 students on their selection in the APS representative teams for Summer Season 2026:
Cricket Boys – Ahmed, Brendan and Leo
Cricket Girls – Bhanu, Shenali, Sharvi and Caitlin
Futsal – Christian
Softball – Eliza, Eleanor, Violet and Frini
Table Tennis – Navik, Esme and Andy
Tennis Boys – Aris
Tennis Girls – Claire
Touch Boys – Phoenix, Lockye and Luke
Touch Girls – Emily, Kalina and Krista
Volleyball Boys – Jack and Jack
Volleyball Girls – Jasmine, Julia and Suri
Being selected for the APS representative team is a great honour for any student. Haileybury Girls represented APS Touch with a 9–5 win, where Haileybury was represented by three girls and the coach; a great effort. In a Touch Football Australia announcement, OH Christina Roberts has been selected in the Alliance States Merit Team following on from her performances in Vic Open Women at the recent NYC tournament. This is a huge achievement. Well done Christina.
Xavier’s results from the recent Age Swimming Nationals on the Gold Coast were brilliant. He won two silver and two bronze medals, achieving three individual PBs in the 50, 100 and 200 breaststroke. Keep up the great work Xavier.
We have featured Jacob before, and he continues to achieve at the highest level. Jacob has been selected for the Australian team for the U16 World Championships, one of only two goalkeepers chosen nationally in his age group. He will attend AIS training camps in May and June, have a pre‑departure camp in Sydney, plus matches in Bosnia before the World Championships in Croatia from 19 July to 10 August. A huge congratulations to Jacob.
Haileybury enjoyed another outstanding day in 3x3 basketball, winning both the U17 boys and U17 girls State Championships. The boys claimed the Division 1 title 21–12 over Berwick, while the girls went undefeated to win Division 2, 21–18 over Crest. Our Year 9 boys also competed strongly in U17 Division 2. Congratulations to all the players and coaching staff.
Matthew Dwyer
Head of Sport (One Haileybury)
Building understanding and empathy
Young people learn best when they are encouraged to look beyond themselves and engage with the world around them. Through social justice learning, students build cultural competence by exploring fairness, inclusion, and the diverse experiences within our community and beyond.
This learning begins with self-awareness. Students reflect on their own identity, values, and viewpoints, while developing an understanding of bias and difference. Over time, they deepen their awareness of social inequities and how exclusion and disadvantage can occur across systems and over time. They also develop the skills needed to engage respectfully with others. Through active listening, thoughtful communication and inclusive collaboration, students build both confidence and compassion, learning how to respond appropriately in a range of contexts.
Importantly, students need opportunities to put this learning into action. Through volunteering and community engagement, they experience the value of contributing their time and talents to support others. These opportunities help develop lasting habits of service and a genuine desire to help those in need.
Social impact in action
The Pre-Senior Social Impact Ventures (SIV) elective provides a clear pathway for students to turn their learning into meaningful action. This elective challenges students to create meaningful change by supporting communities and caring for the environment.
Working in groups, students investigate a social issue such as climate change, education, or social inequality, and design a social enterprise, campaign or initiative. Along the way, they apply design thinking, develop project management skills and strengthen their entrepreneurial mindset.
Recently, Pre-Senior students partnered with Beach Patrol Australia for a beach clean-up. Collecting over 12 kilograms of litter, including more than 600 pieces of soft plastic, they contributed to real-world data linked to protecting marine ecosystems. This hands-on experience reinforced both environmental responsibility and the power of collective action.
Students also engage directly with local organisations. During a visit to The Salvation Army Kingston City, students heard about homelessness and the reality of sleeping rough in the local area, gaining insight into the support provided to those in need.
As part of this visit, students worked in the community garden, planting vegetables that will be used in meals for people experiencing homelessness. The experience prompted genuine reflection, with one student sharing how their understanding of homelessness had shifted, particularly in recognising the scale of the issue within their own community.
Together, these opportunities encourage students to take action, applying their skills and growing awareness to make a genuine impact in their community.
Bronwyn Harrop
Head of Social Justice
West Side Story was a triumph. This classic retelling of Romeo and Juliet transported audiences across all four performances with its passion, spectacle and emotional depth. The electrifying energy of the Jets and Sharks showcased how dance and acting can work in tandem to communicate gang rivalry and tension. Indeed, the choreography, led by the creative vision of Mr Dylan Dickson, elevated the storytelling to another level through vivid and dynamic sequences. ‘Dance at the Gym’ quickly became a cast and audience favourite; nine minutes of breathtaking mambo, dance battles, lifts and colour that brought the stage to life.
Leads Riley and Eva brought a fresh urgency and sincerity to Tony and Maria. Their portrayal of these star-crossed lovers moved audiences deeply; we cared so profoundly for these characters that the final tragic scenes were met with tears and applause in equal measure.
Of course, one of the most enduring and impressive aspects of this musical is its iconic score. Above the action onstage sat a magnificent 32-piece live orchestra, whose presence added extraordinary richness and scale to the production. Mr Robert Latham’s music direction and remarkable attention to detail brought every percussive beat, romantic string line and soaring brass section vividly to life for the audience to both hear and feel.
However, the true heart of the show was its dynamic and generous cast. Led by outstanding Drama Captains Arabella, Tyler, Lia and Riley, this group of young performers embraced every challenge with professionalism, commitment and an enduring sense of play.
In the Drama Department, we often speak about the importance of “serving the show.” That is, contributing to something larger than ourselves. Anyone who experienced the unanimous standing ovations across the final performances could feel that collective spirit. It was a powerful reminder of how art and storytelling can transport us and bring a community together. While the story itself embraces the pathos of tragedy, the experience shared by the cast, orchestra, crew and audiences was nothing short of uplifting.
Nicole Smith
Head of Drama and Theatre Studies, Director of West Side Story
Anzac Day, and the ceremonies that formally recognise the sacrifice made by those who served in times of conflict, remains one of the most important occasions on the Australian calendar. As I have often reflected in previous Insight newsletters, music often plays a unique and powerful role in community life, not only in celebration and entertainment, but also in remembrance, ceremony and commemoration. This year’s Melbourne Anzac Day City March again highlighted the important role musicians play in helping communities honour tradition and service.
Haileybury was proudly represented in this year’s City parade by two outstanding ensembles: Haileybury Drum and Bugle Corps. Both groups performed with great professionalism, respect and pride throughout the event, representing the School and wider community with distinction.
What stood out just as strongly as the students’ performances was the extraordinary support shown by the Haileybury community. Events on this scale require a tremendous collective effort, and the goodwill shown by parents and friends played an enormous part in the success of the day. Families managed early morning starts, transport across Melbourne, parking, uniforms, instruments and countless logistical details, all while encouraging and supporting their children to participate in such a significant civic occasion. The generosity and spirit shown by our families reflected the strength of the Haileybury community and reinforced the deep sense of pride that exists within the School.
The Haileybury Bugle Corps was led by brass tutor Mr David Robinson. A Corporal in the Army Reserve, Mr Robinson has performed the ‘Last Post’ and ‘Reveille’ at the Melbourne Shrine Dawn Service and is regularly involved in AFL and A-League Anzac commemorations. This year he performed as the bugler at the Richmond v Melbourne Anzac Eve match, and the Sunday St Kilda v West Coast match (before travelling to Keysborough for rehearsals with the orchestra for our West Side Story production). His dedication to both music and service continues to provide an outstanding example to our students.
Haileybury Pipes & Drums, led by Daniel Staley, again demonstrated why this ensemble is held in such high regard both within and beyond the School community. Having travelled internationally and achieved success in numerous competitions, the ensemble brought a strong sense of tradition, discipline and reverence to the parade. Their contribution to Anzac Day was deeply moving and a source of great pride for Haileybury.
The day ultimately served as a reminder of the remarkable culture that exists within our community. Students performed with maturity and commitment, staff gave generously of their time and expertise, and parents provided unwavering support behind the scenes.
Thank you and well done to all.
Rod Marshall
Director of Performing Arts & Head of Haileybury Music
Congratulations to Panya for the incredible achievement of being recognised with an Honourable Mention for the 13–15 year old category for the painting My Brother.
In 2026, the Young Archies competition received more than 4,350 submissions, resulting in 70 finalists and 20 honourable mentions. Artworks receiving an honourable mention are displayed online on the Art Gallery of New South Wales website and, since 2014, at Sydney’s SH Ervin Gallery. You can see Panya’s work amongst the finalists here: Young Archie competition finalists 2026 | Art Gallery of NSW
This is a portrait of my brother, based on a photo taken one sunny day when he smiled at the camera. I wanted to show the warmth he brings into my life. While painting him, I focused on the light and shadow of his glasses on his face. I aimed to show the confidence in his expression. This painting is my way to celebrate who he is: someone who is thoughtful and will always be there when I need him.
Please keep an eye out for the next opportunity to enter the Young Archie Competition in late November 2026.
The Haileybury Unit 3 Visual Communication Design students from the City, Berwick, Brighton, Keysborough and Pangea campuses recently had the opportunity to visit the inspiring 2026 Top Designs exhibition at Melbourne Museum and tour the studio of Architectus, a leading architectural design practice based in Melbourne’s CBD.
At the Top Designs exhibition, students explored exemplar 2025 VCE Visual Communication Design Units 3 and 4 folios. This provided valuable insight into high quality design work and helped students develop a deeper understanding of the design process, supporting them as they begin developing their own folios.
In the afternoon, students visited the Architectus studio, where they were given the opportunity to experience a professional design environment and learn more about contemporary architectural practice. Architects from the firm shared their personal career journeys and discussed the diverse pathways available within the design industry. Students were particularly engaged by discussions surrounding recent major projects, including the Haileybury Brighton Year 9 Building and a Performing Arts development, as well as thought provoking conversations about sustainability, the future of architecture, and the increasingly important role design thinking will play in future careers.
A highlight of the excursion was the guided studio tour, which gave students a behind the scenes look at the day-to-day operations of an architectural practice. Many students left feeling inspired, asking thoughtful questions and beginning to see architecture as an exciting and achievable career pathway.
We are also pleased to share that Architectus has expressed interest in offering a limited number of work experience opportunities for Haileybury students.
Rachelle Rae
Head of Visual Arts Senior School
The Pipes & Drums began Term 2 with a busy and meaningful week of Anzac Day services.
At the commencement of Term 2, the band wore their ceremonial uniform to perform at the annual Anzac Day service at Rendall Oval in Keysborough. The band opened proceedings and stood at attention as the fallen Old Haileyburians who served in the war were named and honoured for their service.
Our Brighton-based pipers also performed at the Anzac Day service at the Castlefield campus, delivering an emotional rendition of ‘Amazing Grace’ to commence the ceremony.
On Friday, the Pipes & Drums formed a Guard of Honour for the Boys Firsts home football match, the first of the season. We always value the opportunity to support Haileybury’s sporting teams and hope our performance added to the energy and excitement of the game.
On Anzac Day itself, the band assembled at the Keysborough campus at 6.30 am before departing for the annual parade in the city. The 1.2 kilometre march included several students participating for the first time. We are honoured to take part in this significant and historic event each year.
Our Senior Band is now gearing up for the much-anticipated Haileybury Ball on 23 May. Set to open the evening, the band will bring a fresh and exciting repertoire that promises to set the tone for a fantastic night. With plenty of energy, new music and hours of preparation behind them, our students are ready to deliver a standout performance and make this year’s Ball truly unforgettable.
Daniel Staley
Director of Pipes & Drums
Our school has been filled with mums, aunties, grandmas and special friends at the many events that have been hosted across the School, whether you joined us in the Middle School for cupcakes and coffee, the Early Learning Centre to hear beautiful singing and spend time in classrooms, chose to plant a succulent, or indulged in a hand massage in the Junior School, there was plenty on offer to show the special people in our lives how appreciated they are.
A big shout out to Hannah Crook and Tara Costello for their coordination of the Mother’s Day Market and thank you to the large number of community members who packed gifts and volunteered at the market to support our students in purchasing a gift for Sunday.
Our HPFC president, Casey Harris, hosted a fabulous Mother’s Day Lunch, on Friday, 8 May, with a photobooth, live music, DJ, acknowledgement of our Year 12 mums and a fabulous raffle. A big thank you goes to Casey and all the community members who donated time and items, and turned up to party. We hope everyone had a special day on Sunday.
On Tuesday, 27 April, we were honoured to host a Future of Sport at Haileybury event led by our Head of Sport, Matt Dwyer, our Head of Coaches, Nathan Burke, and a panel of exceptional coaches, namely Grant Brebner, Melissa Barbieri, David Powell, Brad Hodge, Matthew Lloyd, Nicole Callinan and Craig Mottram. Each of them is a superstar: these players and coaches performing at the highest levels including the Olympics, in Australian and International teams and now guiding our Haileybury students.
Matt shared the Strategy for Sport at Haileybury, discussing the five personas of students participating in sport, which are not set and forget, but can change for a child based on the season of sport, their social context or age. The five personas are: Aspiring Stars driven by performance and progression; Team Player driven by competition and belonging; Wellness Seeker driven by health and lifestyle; Social Set driven by fun and connection; and Still Finding My Way driven by exploration. Each of these personas is recognised and catered for through our sporting program.
Nathan hosted our coaches and led discussions around the sport program we deliver, the connections that are made with students, the theme of team, and the insight our coaches have due to the inclusion of teaching staff in the sport program so students are well supported both on and off the field. Nathan also discussed that success in sport encompasses four areas (connectedness, striving, capability and fun) and that the differing levels of teams or intention of the students determines which of those four are the highest focus at any point in time.
This term we are fortunate that our Year 5 and 6 AFL Wednesday competitions and games will be hosted at Castlefield. On Wednesday, 29 April the first round was held with our Boys Middle School team who were cheered on in the first half of the game by our Year 7-12 students. The team held on for a victory and were thrilled to have been supported by the older students in their first game.
On the most superb autumn day, Wednesday, 13 May, saw our Year 5 and 6 Girls team play on Clark Oval against Caulfield Grammar. Playing in front of a crowd of Castlefield students from ELC through to Year 12 and an enthusiastic parent cheer squad, the girls played exceptionally well and convincingly won the game.
We will be hosting regular AFL or AFLW Year 5 and 6 games on Clark Oval during Wednesday APS competition, and the teams look forward to lots of cheering from supporters. Parents are always welcome to join us.
We had a wonderful time celebrating Mother’s Day in the ELC, welcoming mums and special caregivers to join their children for a morning of play and connection.
Families enjoyed exploring experiences together, singing songs and sharing special handmade cards and gifts. It was lovely to see children proudly show their mums around and spend quality time together in their learning environment.
Thank you to all who joined us and helped make the day so special.
“I love to cuddle mummy. Cuddle means love.” – Kayla
“I love my mummy because she is the best and I love her.” – Viren
“I love my mummy ‘cause every time she brings me to school, to Haileybury.” – Frankie
Technology is part of children’s lives from a young age, making eSafety an important focus in early childhood. It involves teaching simple, age-appropriate skills like asking before using devices, and telling a trusted adult if something feels wrong.
Educators support this by modelling safe use and providing guided, child-friendly experiences. Working together with families helps reinforce safe habits at home and at school. By introducing eSafety early, we help children build the skills to use technology safely and responsibly. For more information, please take a look at the display in the ELC corridor, and you can also find lots of helpful resources here.
It was lovely to have so many gorgeous mums, nannas, aunts and special friends join the Junior School in the classrooms. From ‘minute to win it’ games and hand massages, to potting plants and photo booths, there was something for everyone. The children loved exploring the classroom activities and hosting their grown-ups.
In a school like Haileybury, the students love to be a part of what’s next, whether that’s the ELC children coming and speaking at a Junior School assembly, or the Junior School students being the target audience of the Middle School Maker’s Market. Each part of the School has their own community, but we recognise we are part of the broader Castlefield community too. With many siblings stretched over the different areas, there is always an interest in the opportunities that come with each stage of a Haileybury education.
This term, our theme is Belonging, and we have been exploring what it means to feel connected, included and valued within our school community. One of the best ways we build belonging is by getting involved in community events, celebrating together and supporting one another. These moments help strengthen friendships, create lasting memories and remind us that everyone has an important place in our school.
Last week, we were thrilled to host our wonderful Mother’s Day celebration. It was fantastic to see so many special mums, guardians and special friends join us for a morning filled with smiles, laughter and appreciation, not to mention caffeine and cupcakes. Events like these are a wonderful opportunity for students to show gratitude and celebrate the important people in their lives. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the event such a success.
Belonging is further strengthened when we show up, support one another and take part in shared experiences, which is why attendance at the upcoming Cross Country Carnival on Tuesday, 19 May at our Berwick campus is so important, as it provides every student with the opportunity to celebrate House spirit, participate with pride, cheer on their mates and build stronger connections within our Middle School community.
We are also excited about our upcoming Open Classes, where families are invited to come along and see learning in action, be it algebra, a drama performance, narrative writing or painting a portrait, we look forward to your involvement. Students are looking forward to sharing their classroom experiences, achievements and learning goals with you. Stay tuned for these dates and times that will be sent via the app.
As we continue through the term, we encourage all students to embrace belonging by showing kindness, giving new things a go and being a supportive, caring friend to others.
Katrina Manson
Head of Castlefield (Brighton)
A huge thank you to everyone who pitched in and made Mother’s Day week such a memorable one, especially during our bustling Mother’s Day Market. Special thanks go out to Hannah Crook and Tara Costello for their outstanding efforts, as well as to the whole team who helped deliver a fabulous Mother’s Day Lunch at Encore St Kilda Beach. We are already excited and full of ideas for next year’s event.
It was also fantastic to see so many dads at the recent Father’s Catch Up. What a great turnout. We hope to see even more dads next time, so keep an eye on the myHaileybury app for upcoming dates and reminders.
I encourage everyone to join us for our next HPFC Meeting on Tuesday, 2 June at 7.30 pm in Sholto Black. This will be a relaxed and friendly evening with drinks and nibbles provided. It is an ideal opportunity to share your feedback, connect with other parents and join in if daytime meetings have not suited your schedule. Please RSVP here so we can cater accordingly.
I look forward to seeing many of you again soon.
Casey Harris
President, Haileybury Parents & Friends Castlefield
Parking around the property can, at times, be difficult. Our priority is the safety and wellbeing of our Haileybury community. Parents leaving via the South Road exit, please take care when turning onto South Road, particularly as the pedestrian crossing is so close to the exit.
Remember that all exits from the School to Villeroy and Rouen Streets close at 6.00 pm nightly. If you are attending an evening function, we encourage you to park on South Road and enter through the front gate.
There is no drop-off/pick-up zone in Rouen Street, with parking restrictions in place along one side at busy school start and end times.
There are clearly signed two-minute parking spaces outside our Villeroy Street gate. These should be used as a ‘kiss-and-go’ zone rather than for disembarking from your car. Cars should not be left unattended.
Families are encouraged to use the roundabout via the South Road entrance as the preferred drop-off and pick-up location.
Please be considerate of the residents in the streets surrounding our School.
I love you, Mum
For Mother’s Day, the ELC recently celebrated and gave thanks to the mothers and significant women in their lives. The morning was filled with smiles, as well as activities shared by children, mothers and significant people and included sewing, bracelet making and sketching in our ground floor assembly area. A photo booth was also created by the children.
Having worked hard on their gifts of appreciation for the special people who do so much for them, the children were excited to present their mothers or special people with beautiful keepsakes. Thank you to everyone who joined us in this celebration.
We love to read
The Pre-Prep children are developing their skills and interests in blending and segmenting. As they continue learning the remaining initial sounds through a range of games, activities and intentional teaching moments, the children are being presented with opportunities to strengthen their phonemic awareness.
The children have been reading books by Julia Donaldson and, together, have been identifying rhyming words and displaying them within their classroom. This learning has consolidated their rhyme recognition, further strengthening their overall phonological awareness.
Leap into Storytime with Luna Roo: The Kangaroo Baller
The excitement is certainly building as we look forward to the return of National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) in 2026. Coordinated each year by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA), this very special event unites communities nationwide through their shared love of reading. At a set time, children across the country gather in libraries, schools, preschools and homes to enjoy the same Australian picture book together.
At City Campus, we are very fortunate to have Ms Kuhne, Head of Library Services – City, lead this special occasion. Junior School students will come together under the fair lights on Level 3, alongside our ELC children, to share in this memorable experience.
This year’s featured book is Luna Roo: The Kangaroo Baller, written by Adam Jackson and Adrian Lloyd, and illustrated by Jake Minton.
Junior School House Cross Country
Our Junior School House Cross Country took place in the first week of Term 2 and was a wonderful afternoon filled with energy and House spirit. Set in the beautiful Flagstaff Gardens alongside our City campus, students ran distances of up to 1.6 kilometres, showing great determination and enthusiasm. We were lucky to have such lovely weather, and it was fantastic to see every student give their best and cross the finish line. A big thank you to our parent community for coming along to cheer, and to the Haileybury City Parents and Friends helpers for organising the much-appreciated lolly bags to help students refuel after their run. Congratulations to Elliot House for taking out the overall win.
Celebrating mothers and significant women
On Friday, 8 May, the Junior School loved welcoming students’ mums and significant women to our campus for a fun and engaging morning together. There was plenty to do, with everyone crafting paper mosaics, meticulously folding origami masterpieces, and creating paper bouquets. They left with their own functional travel pouches to take home, each one filled with care and made especially for mums by their child. We wrapped things up with a simple but sweet touch, sending everyone home with a matcha tea bag and a note that read “I love you so matcha.”
Makers Market
The Makers Market was a vibrant showcase of the creativity and entrepreneurship of our Year 8 students. As part of the StartUp program, students designed and constructed an impressive array of products and experiences. Presented in unique stalls, visitors to the market enjoyed sweet treats, engaging games, handmade creations and a variety of other student-designed concepts. Students demonstrated exceptional dedication as they built their businesses from the ground up, developing essential skills in teamwork, problem solving and critical and creative thinking. Every stage of the process resulted in an event that truly celebrated innovation and enterprise.
Middle School mothers and significant women film afternoon
Middle School students celebrated Mother’s Day by honouring their mothers and the significant women in their lives. Taking place at Hoyts in Melbourne Central, students and their guests attended a private screening of Future Council. This inspiring documentary, created by award-winning Australian filmmaker Damon Gameau, followed eight children as they travelled across Europe, encouraging business leaders to confront the world’s most urgent environmental challenges. The film’s message provided an opportunity for reflection on leadership, advocacy and the impact of positive change. It was a memorable afternoon in which the students and their mothers and significant women were able to spend quality time together.
Poetry in action
Year 7 students were treated to an engaging theatrical experience through Poetry in Action, a performance that brought the world of poetry to life. The presentation entertained the audience with a storyline of mistaken identity and unexpected romance, blending humour with literary exploration. Students experienced a wide range of poetry forms, from traditional sonnets to the energetic slam poetry. The performance introduced a variety of poetic techniques and encouraged students to appreciate poetry’s versatility and emotional depth.
Year 8 Drama Performance
The Year 8 Drama Performance was a true testament to the power of teamwork and creativity. Within the Drama elective Collaboration to Creation, students began with the stimulus ‘Loneliness in a Crowded World,’ and from this starting point, they brainstormed and developed themes and ideas that they explored through performance. The process required them to apply the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the semester, considering all elements of production such as blocking, staging, lighting, sound, costumes and props. Over four weeks, students worked together to shape their ideas into meaningful performances, ultimately presenting their work to an audience. This experience not only showcased their artistic and technical abilities but also strengthened their confidence and understanding of theatre as a collaborative art form.
Caroline Merrick
Head of City
We hope everyone has had a great start of term. We wanted to take the time to remind everyone to check the calendar in the app for key events parents can attend. There was a lovely Anzac Day Commemoration at Flagstaff recently that families were invited to join. If you are unsure if parents are welcome, please email hpfcity@haileybury.com.au.
We look forward to seeing you at the Middle School Trivia night and Junior School Board-game bonanza coming up.
Michelle White & Andrea Livingston
Co-Presidents, Haileybury Parents & Friends City
Congratulations to Year 11 Haileybury Berwick student Jett on his selection to represent Australia at the 2026 Oceania Athletics Under-18 Championships in Darwin. This is a wonderful achievement, and we wish Jett all the very best for his events.
We look forward to welcoming the many ELC–Year 12 parents who have booked tickets to see Dr Brad Marshall - The Unplugged Psychologist on Wednesday 20 May, 6.00 pm – 7.00 pm. For over a decade, Dr Marshall has been helping families find a balance between healthy screen time and problematic overuse by providing real strategies with concrete examples. Please reserve your seats here.
Edrington recently hosted three wonderful Mother’s Day events. The ELC children enjoyed every minute of their time with their mothers doing activities together, while the Junior School event brought out the competitive spirit of families during bingo games, quizzes and Kahoot matches, followed by a delicious morning tea. Middle School mothers and their children also enjoyed a special breakfast together and the opportunity to spend quality time catching up before the school day began.
Mother’s Day is a meaningful celebration in the ELC, providing children with the opportunity to show love, appreciation and gratitude for the important women in their lives. Throughout the week, children engaged in a variety of experiences including creating handmade cards and gifts, painting, singing songs and sharing stories about their families. These activities encouraged children to express their emotions, develop creativity and strengthen their communication.
Our Mother’s Day event also enabled children to proudly share their program experiences within the room. Mums were invited to spend quality time with their child in a relaxed, warm and welcoming atmosphere where they participated in fun interactive activities, enjoy conversations and create special memories with one another.
Celebrating Mother’s Day in early childhood education is important because it promotes a strong sense of belonging and community. It also teaches children about kindness, empathy, respect and the importance of showing appreciation for others. These positive experiences support children’s emotional and social development during the important early years of learning.
Emotional regulation
Just like academics, social and emotional skills need to be explicitly taught to children in order for them to develop good friendships and regulate their emotions. Since the beginning of the year, we have run sessions with our year levels in the Junior School on emotional regulation. Students have learnt:
Our next step is to learn about friendship fires: what do we do when friends have disagreements and how do we solve this problem? Students will be role playing different situations and using steps to tell their friend how they are feeling when they are in the yellow or red zone in an appropriate way. We will also be discussing ‘mean on purpose’ versus ‘giving the benefit of the doubt’ in situations that occur, i.e., let’s look at it from someone else’s perspective. Finally, we discuss friendships circles and what this looks like.
Mother’s Day Breakfast
A warm thank you to all the mothers and special friends who joined us for our Middle School Breakfast. It was a huge success and the students really enjoyed spending some quality family time with you.
Year 8 Makers Market
The Year 8 Makers Market was a fantastic event showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurial skills of our students following their Startup unit on entrepreneurship. The BMS quad was buzzing with vibrant stalls, enthusiastic sellers, and eager patrons from Junior and Middle School, creating a fun and energetic atmosphere for all involved.
Middle School examinations
Years 7 and 8 students completed their End of Semester 1 Examinations. It was pleasing to see the commitment and initiative the Year 8 students demonstrated as they worked towards their exams. Year 7 students sat their first examinations to complete their studies in Geography and semester-based subjects. Staff worked hard to teach and guide all students about the most efficient and effective ways to prepare for and sit examinations.
House Cross Country
We are excited to welcome campuses from across the wider Haileybury community as we host the Middle School Cross Country. Events like this are a great opportunity for students and staff to come together, build connections, and celebrate being part of the wider Haileybury family. We look forward to a fantastic day filled with teamwork, encouragement, shared experiences, and plenty of School spirit.
Jeanette Rawlings
Head of Edrington (Berwick)
I hope you all loved the very carefully curated gifts your children purchased for you at our Mothers’ Day Stall. The Mothers’ Day stall is such a highlight for us in the HPFE, and the children’s faces light up with so much excitement when they see the items available to purchase. We couldn’t run it without the help of our amazing volunteers, so once again, thank you to those who helped set up and run our event. Congratulations also to the winner of the HPFE hamper at the Middle School Mothers’ Day Breakfast, Kate Haakman.
Every Wednesday you will find Jenelle and Amphil at the SHUS from 8.30am to 10.45am. 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
Newlands has had a wonderful start to Term 2 and basked in glorious autumnal sunshine at the start, with all students and staff happily settled into productive academic and co-curricular routines. The weather has turned just in time for an initiative we are proud to participate in again in the Big Freeze to raising vital funds for MND and to help eradicate the Beast.
This year we have socks and beanies that can be purchased and collected from the Newlands Reception.
https://events.humanitix.com/big-freeze-12-beanies/tickets
KidsROAR
Our Newlands ELC children recently had the opportunity to participate in engaging KidsROAR sessions, while parents were invited to attend an informative online session beforehand to gain a deeper understanding of the program and its purpose. KidsROAR is an early childhood initiative focused on building emotional resilience, confidence and positive wellbeing in young children through play-based activities, storytelling and practical strategies. During the sessions, our children explored ways to recognise and express their feelings, develop self-regulation skills, and build strong, respectful relationships with others. Providing parents with insight into the program allowed for a shared understanding of the language and techniques being introduced, helping to strengthen consistency between home and their children’s learning environment.
ELC Mother's Day
We were delighted to celebrate our mothers and special friends event across two wonderful days, creating meaningful opportunities for connection within our Newlands ELC community. Our fabulous educators led engaging Zumba and yoga sessions, inviting children and their special guests to move, laugh and participate together in new and fun ways. These shared experiences provided a beautiful opportunity for our children to proudly include their loved ones in their learning environment, strengthening their sense of confidence and belonging.
Year 2 String Recital
We are excited to present the Newlands Junior String Recital, taking place on Tuesday, 2 June in Aikman Hall from 2.30 pm – 3.30 pm.
The upcoming recital promises to be a standout moment of the term for our Year 2 students, as they step onto the big stage for the first time with their string instruments.
For many, this marks a significant and memorable milestone, and the sense of pride and accomplishment will be evident in every performance.
We warmly encourage families and friends to join us in supporting the students at what is sure to be a joyful celebration of their musical growth and learning.
There is no doubt the experience will leave them inspired and eager for future opportunities to perform.
Junior School in Action - literacy
Parents and guardians of Junior School students are warmly invited to attend our Junior School in Action: Literacy sessions on Wednesday, 17 June, from 8.35 am – 9.35 am.
This engaging event provides a wonderful opportunity to step inside the classroom and experience firsthand the literacy teaching and learning that takes place each day at Newlands.
During the session, visitors will also gain a deeper understanding of how literacy is embedded across the Junior School, helping students make meaningful connections in their learning.
There will be an opportunity to see students actively engaged in their learning, demonstrating the routines, structures and strategies that support their growth as capable and confident learners.
We look forward to welcoming you into our classrooms and sharing the vibrant literacy culture that is such an important part of life at Newlands Junior School.
A great Term 2
It has been a positive Term 2, with Middle School students returning refreshed after a well-earned break and ready to embrace new challenges. The renewed energy across the campus has been evident, with students quickly settling back into routines and engaging enthusiastically in their learning. Year 8 students are set to complete their Semester 1 exams and commencing Semester 2, approaching this new phase with focus and determination. This strong start has set a confident and focused tone for the term ahead.
Makers Market
The Makers Market was another fantastic showcase of creativity, teamwork and entrepreneurial spirit across the Middle School at Newlands this term. Students worked in groups to design and run their own stalls, managing sales and engaging with customers throughout the day.
The event ran smoothly, with stalls set up in a professional and organised manner. Students demonstrated responsibility by maintaining engaging stalls and working collaboratively, contributing to a vibrant and positive atmosphere across the School. The creativity and effort shown by students made the day a great success.
Beyond the event itself, the Makers Market provided students with valuable opportunities to develop key entrepreneurial skills, including problem-solving, financial literacy, communication and innovation. These real-world experiences help build confidence and encourage students to think creatively and independently.
Dr Stephan Muller
Acting Head of Newlands (Keysborough)
Friday, 29 May – 2.00pm to 4.00pm
Term 2 signals the change over in uniform from Summer to Winter.
Please note the below unform is required to be worn:
Amy Ching
President, Haileybury Parents & Friends Keysborough
The Old Haileyburian Association is proud to launch Haileybury Voices 2026, a new podcast dedicated to the stories, insights and experiences that define our global alumni community.
More than just a podcast, Haileybury Voices goes beyond the blazer to explore the journeys of Old Haileyburians, the lessons they have learnt, and the values that continue to connect us long after school.
Hosted by OHA Council members Pavneet Arneja and Shankar Pillai (both OH 2006), the series brings thoughtful, authentic conversations to the forefront, celebrating the people who shape and strengthen our community.
Episode 1 features Russell Davidson (OH 1986), Director of Development and Alumni Relations, whose enduring connection to Haileybury exemplifies leadership, service and legacy. A driving force behind the Old Haileyburian Association and the Haileybury Foundation, Russell reflects on his journey from student to steward of one of the world’s leading alumni networks, sharing insights shaped not only by his professional life, but also by his pursuits as an Ironman finisher and long-time football umpire.
Listen to Russell Davidson (OH 1986)
Episode 2 features Ben Sze (OH 2002), Co-Founder of Edrolo and Co-CEO of Teacher’s Buddy. Ben offers a candid reflection on his path from Haileybury to the forefront of education technology, exploring the realities of entrepreneurship, leadership and growth. His story brings an important perspective on resilience, mental health and the challenge of balancing ambition with wellbeing, themes that resonate across all stages of the Haileyburian journey.
Episode 3 features Monique Mulcahy (OH 2013), an internationally recognised filmmaker whose work has captivated audiences. From her early creative beginnings at Haileybury to award-winning success behind the camera, Monique shares her journey of finding her voice through film and the power of storytelling. This is an inspiring conversation for students, alumni and anyone carving out their own creative path.
Listen to Monique Mulcahy (OH 2013)
Whether you are a current student or a lifelong member of the Haileybury community, Haileybury Voices invites you to reconnect, reflect and be inspired by the stories shaping our shared legacy. New episodes will be released monthly, featuring more inspiring conversations from across the Haileybury community.
As we celebrate alumni stories and achievements through Haileybury Voices, we also invite the community to recognise the next generation of outstanding Old Haileyburians.
Nominations are now open for the OHA Outstanding Young Alumni Awards which are presented each year across five different fields of expertise: Arts, Business, Sport, STEM and Community.
Nominees must have graduated from Haileybury within the past twelve years and have made significant achievements in their field of endeavour, exemplifying the best attributes of youth in today’s world.
Submit your nomination today and help celebrate the next generation of outstanding Old Haileyburians via the nomination form.
Please explore all our programs and services via the OHA website.
The OHA Office is here to support all members of our community, and we warmly encourage our alumni to stay connected. Please feel free to reach out via stayconnected@haileybury.com.au or contact me on 03 9904 6615.
Kylie Phillips
Development Office Operations Lead
The beginning of Term 2 has seen our Pre-Senior students build purposefully on the foundation of belonging established in Term 1, as we now turn our attention to the key pillar of independence. This is a significant and exciting phase of the journey, with students beginning to make informed decisions about their future pathways, supported closely by Haileybury’s extensive Senior School network.
Last Tuesday, students attended an engaging and informative presentation led by our Teaching and Learning, and Careers teams, where they were introduced to the breadth of opportunities available to them. From subject selection and university pathways to international study and future careers, students gained valuable insight into the possibilities ahead. This was further strengthened by our Heads of Department, who provided clear guidance on subject choices as students begin considering their three-year VCE program. Families will now have received detailed Pathways and Programs information, and we strongly encourage open and collaborative conversations at home to ensure each student feels confident in selecting a pathway that best suits their strengths, interests and aspirations.
To support this important process, every Pre-Senior student will meet individually with their respective Head of Senior School over the coming weeks. These conversations are an invaluable opportunity to review subject preferences and map out a considered and balanced program. At Haileybury, our approach to subject selection is grounded in experience and data-informed practice. Our priority is ensuring each student is positioned to achieve their very best outcomes and to leave with the strongest possible results and future opportunities.
The upcoming Future Ready Festival on Tuesday, 12 May, will provide direct access to universities, industry professionals, careers practitioners and organisations, offering students a chance to engage in meaningful conversations about life beyond Haileybury and the pathways that lead there.
We also begin preparations for the Explore and Expeditions program, the cornerstone of the Pre-Senior experience and our most powerful vehicle for developing independence. Families will have received communication regarding the upcoming online briefing on Monday, 18 May at 6.00 pm, where key information and guidance will be shared to support students in preparing for their respective trips.
Finally, it has been wonderful to see the strong start to the APS/AGSV sporting season. We congratulate all students on their efforts in the opening round, and particularly those selected in First teams. Whether competing at the highest level or simply embracing the opportunity to be active and connected, we are proud of the way our students represent Haileybury with energy, respect and integrity.
Year 12 Business Management students recently attended an excursion to Yakult Australia, gaining valuable insight into the real-world application of operations management theory studied in Units 3 and 4.
During the visit, students observed the production process of Yakult’s probiotic drink, allowing them to connect classroom concepts such as inputs, processes and outputs to a live manufacturing environment. They saw how raw materials, including water, skim milk powder, and the unique Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain, are transformed through highly automated processes into a finished product ready for distribution.
The excursion highlighted key operational strategies, including quality control, efficiency and the use of technology. Students learnt how strict hygiene standards and continuous monitoring ensure product consistency, reinforcing their understanding of quality management practices. The role of automation and specialised equipment also demonstrated how businesses improve efficiency while maintaining high standards.
Overall, the experience provided students with a practical understanding of how theoretical concepts are applied in a real business setting. It deepened their knowledge of operations management and gave them a clearer perspective on how businesses like Yakult produce goods on a large scale while meeting quality and customer expectations.
On Wednesday, 29 April, our smallest and tallest Haileybury students came together under blue skies for a truly heart‑warming Teddy Bear Picnic.
Set on the Newlands oval at the front of the School, our Pre‑Prep students and Year 12s shared play lunch, stories and plenty of smiles as they read together, alongside a delightful collection of fluffy teddy bears that were lovingly brought in to be donated to charity.
The morning unfolded beautifully, beginning with snacks and storytelling and ending in laughter as the teddy bears took part in a much‑anticipated race, guided hand‑in‑hand by both our Pre‑Prep students and Year 12s. It was a simple moment made special by togetherness, sunshine and shared joy.
Sincere thanks to Ms Pontikis, along with our ELC and Facilities teams, for generously sharing their space and helping to create such a carefree and memorable experience. Most of all, thank you for giving our senior students the chance to feel like little kids again.
Overall, we collected over 100 toys, now making their way to Monash Children’s Hospital to bring smiles and stories to even more children.
Excitement is building across Pre-Senior as families receive invitations for this year’s Explore & Expeditions program. With more than 500 Pre-Senior students preparing to journey across Victoria, Australia and the globe, this program remains a cornerstone of the Haileybury experience. Whether hiking the Larapinta Trail, exploring ancient temples in Cambodia, or snorkelling over Ningaloo Reef, each itinerary has been carefully designed to inspire personal growth, resilience and a sense of global citizenship.
Families are reminded to read the documents attached to their invitations carefully, as they contain essential information on itineraries, packing lists, behavioural expectations, visas and key dates. Over the coming weeks, students will take part in structured preparation sessions with their teachers and peers. These are opportunities not only to learn the practicalities of their journey, but also to reset relationships, develop teamwork and prepare for new challenges. Time and again, I have seen students return from these experiences with greater confidence, maturity and new friendships.
The subject selection process will begin in Term 2 for students in Years 9, 10 and 11.
We are delighted to announce the Senior School Subject Expo, live and in person at Keysborough Senior School. The event will take place from 3.00 pm – 6.30 pm on Tuesday, 19 May in the Langford Pavilion and Music Annex.
From the wonders of science to the enchanting realms of literature, the intricacies of mathematics to the vibrant tapestries of history and the creative arts, there are subjects for everyone, and we invite you to speak directly with educators to ensure every subject you select heeds your needs and passions.
It may be helpful to visit VTAC (the centralised admissions centre for most undergraduate university and TAFE courses) and the VCAA (the body that sets guidelines for what students from Prep to Year 12 learn in Victorian schools). Please remember that you can always make an appointment for yourself and your child with one of our Careers advisors to discuss these matters. Your child’s Head of House or relevant Head of Pre-Senior can help you make these appointments.
Dr Nicholas Grigsby
Deputy Principal, Head of Senior Schools
Haileybury Pangea’s Senior School Community Connection Day brought Years 10–12 students together in the city for a relaxed afternoon of bowling and connection. It was a great opportunity to meet face-to-face, build friendships, and enjoy time together outside the online classroom. The event reinforced the importance of community at Pangea, giving students space to socialise, connect across year levels, and strengthen their sense of belonging. We thank Head of House Natasha Eshuis for bringing this event to life, as well as the many staff who supported this wonderful opportunity for our students.
Sports Webinar Series
Haileybury Pangea’s Sports Webinar Series is a dynamic initiative designed to strengthen connection, engagement and a sense of belonging among student athletes. Led by Head of House Natasha Eshuis, Head of Sport Matthew Dwyer and Head of Coaching Nathan Burke, these webinars bring together students and leading voices from the world of sport to explore high-performance pathways, wellbeing and personal development.
Each session features experienced athletes, coaches and industry professionals who share their insights, stories and practical advice, offering students valuable exposure beyond traditional training environments. Topics range from performance and recovery to leadership, resilience and goal setting, supporting both athletic and personal growth.
The series also plays a key role in building a connected Haileybury sporting community and linking Haileybury Pangea’s student athletes with Old Haileyburians and key sport leaders in the School. Through authentic voices and real-world stories, this series reinforces Haileybury Pangea’s commitment to developing well-rounded, confident and connected student athletes.
Joanna Baker
Head of Campus
APS/AGSV Summer Sport this year was a landmark season, with Grand Finals being introduced across both Girls and Boys First competitions for the first time in history (previously premierships were awarded to the team that finished on top of the ladder after the home and away season). This year, Haileybury teams kicked off the season back in November 2025, competing in 11 competitions. Come Grand Final weekend, we were extremely excited to be competing in eight premiership matches, the highest of any APS/AGSV school. This was truly an outstanding achievement that reflects the commitment, resilience and teamwork shown by our athletes throughout the season. Regardless of the results, it promised to be a truly memorable weekend.
From those eight grand finals, our students delivered when it mattered most, securing five premierships. This is an exceptional return and speaks to the strength of our coaching programs, the dedication of our players, and the support provided by families and the wider school community. Each team demonstrated the values we aim to instill: hard work, humility and a willingness to compete with pride.
Beyond the results, what stands out most is the way our students represented the School. Whether in training, travelling to fixtures, or competing in high‑pressure moments, they consistently displayed fair play and respect for opponents, officials and teammates. These qualities matter just as much as the scoreboard.
Congratulations to all those who played in finals and particularly the winning teams:
Premiers
Runners Up
These results, which many believe is the most successful season of sport in the history of the School, are a collective achievement that reflects the strength of our entire sporting community. Well done to all.
The APS /AGSV competition is widely regarded as one of (if not, the) strongest school sporting competitions in the country. In this context, to be named in the representative team for your sport of choice is a huge honour and deserves acknowledgment. We would like to congratulate the following 28 students on their selection in the APS representative teams for Summer Season 2026:
Cricket Boys – Ahmed, Brendan and Leo
Cricket Girls – Bhanu, Shenali, Sharvi and Caitlin
Futsal – Christian
Softball – Eliza, Eleanor, Violet and Frini
Table Tennis – Navik, Esme and Andy
Tennis Boys – Aris
Tennis Girls – Claire
Touch Boys – Phoenix, Lockye and Luke
Touch Girls – Emily, Kalina and Krista
Volleyball Boys – Jack and Jack
Volleyball Girls – Jasmine, Julia and Suri
Being selected for the APS representative team is a great honour for any student. Haileybury Girls represented APS Touch with a 9–5 win, where Haileybury was represented by three girls and the coach; a great effort. In a Touch Football Australia announcement, OH Christina Roberts has been selected in the Alliance States Merit Team following on from her performances in Vic Open Women at the recent NYC tournament. This is a huge achievement. Well done Christina.
Xavier’s results from the recent Age Swimming Nationals on the Gold Coast were brilliant. He won two silver and two bronze medals, achieving three individual PBs in the 50, 100 and 200 breaststroke. Keep up the great work Xavier.
We have featured Jacob before, and he continues to achieve at the highest level. Jacob has been selected for the Australian team for the U16 World Championships, one of only two goalkeepers chosen nationally in his age group. He will attend AIS training camps in May and June, have a pre‑departure camp in Sydney, plus matches in Bosnia before the World Championships in Croatia from 19 July to 10 August. A huge congratulations to Jacob.
Haileybury enjoyed another outstanding day in 3x3 basketball, winning both the U17 boys and U17 girls State Championships. The boys claimed the Division 1 title 21–12 over Berwick, while the girls went undefeated to win Division 2, 21–18 over Crest. Our Year 9 boys also competed strongly in U17 Division 2. Congratulations to all the players and coaching staff.
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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