PRESHIL WEEKLY
Dear Preshil Community,
Welcome to another edition of the Preshil Weekly.
This week, we’ve found ourselves easing back into the rhythm of regular classes—well, as regular as Preshil can be—following the energy and depth of last week’s activities.
Over the past two weeks we have shared reflective and moving commitments to engage deeply with the significance of National Sorry Day and the ongoing, vital work of reconciliation.
We also hosted two beautiful events: the Autumn Soirée and the Works in Progress exhibition. Both were quintessentially Preshilian—authentically expressing our values of Arts & Self-Expression and Relationships & Community.
Our work as educators is to support young people in their learning and growth in the broadest sense. Much of this support is active, yet intentionally subtle—creating the conditions for students to explore, express, lead, and truly shine. These events were a testament to that philosophy—examples of how our staff lead from beside or behind—as Margaret E. (Mug) Lyttle so memorably put it, “leading from behind” as we plan for what lies ahead.
Looking ahead, one of the great highlights of our calendar—the Winter Solstice celebration—is on the horizon. Taking place on the final Thursday of term (26th of June), it’s a joyful, communal moment that captures the heart of our school. We warmly encourage everyone to rug up and join us for lanterns, soup, bonfire, and song.
Wishing you all a cosy and restful long weekend.
Warmly,
Aaron Mackinnon
Principal
Theatre Program
Last week was a HUGE week for our Theatre program, with a whopping TWO excursions! On Tuesday night, our Year 11 and 12 class attended “The Birds” at the Malthouse. This was a one person play where the audience had to wear headphones to experience the intricate soundscapes. Then, on Wednesday, Drama students in Years 9-12 attended a production of “Hadestown” at Her Majesty’s Theatre: a modernised Greek tragedy which had a sound palette of folk, jazz and gospel to tell the tragic story of Orpheus and Eurydice.
Tournament Of The Minds
Students are actively participating in TOM (Tournament of Minds) where they are developing innovative thinking skills and learning the value of teamwork through engaging, hands-on challenges.
HR & Students Join Forces
This week at Preshil, we piloted an initiative involving students in the selection process for our upcoming vacant Senior Studio Leader role at Blackhall.
We believe involving students in the decision-making and selection processes of new teachers is incredibly important. The voice of the student plays a critical role in guiding us to choose educators who don’t just teach, but who also connect, support, and inspire our students to thrive. The lived experience and insights of our students are invaluable in ensuring that we select individuals who align with our progressive educational philosophy, culture and values..
By integrating the student voice into our hiring processes, we are not merely adhering to a trend but embracing a transformative approach to education. Research consistently highlights the positive impact of involving students in decisions that affect their learning environment.
Studies have shown that when students are actively involved in decision-making, they experience increased engagement, motivation, and a sense of ownership over their learning journey. This empowerment leads to enhanced academic outcomes and a stronger sense of community within the school.
This approach reflects our dedication to creating an educational environment where students feel valued, heard, and integral to the school’s evolution. The opportunity also provides students with the chance to build their confidence, gain valuable insights and develop their skills.
Next week, Aaron and Troy will meet with the students to obtain their feedback on the process and their involvement in addition to their feedback and recommendations on their preferred candidate/s. Thanks once again to Hamish, Marlo and Grace for your dedication, commitment, passion and involvement in the process.
Great Book Swap – A Wonderful Success!
We’re thrilled to share an update from our Great Book Swap last Tuesday. As part of Reconciliation Week, we hosted a Great Book Swap at the Arlington Campus to raise funds for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. The event was beautifully supported, with a fantastic selection of books generously donated by our school community.
The joy of discovering new reads created a buzz of excitement—there was frenzied browsing, happy book swapping, and smiles all around. It was heartwarming to see such enthusiasm for reading, and some children even chose to contribute extra coins from their own piggy banks.
Thank you to all the families who supported the event so generously. Together, we raised $184 for this important cause.
If you missed the day but would still like to contribute, you’re very welcome to add to our school’s donation by clicking on this link Preshil Arlington Great Book Swap or by visiting the Indigenous Literacy Foundation website and searching for our school to make an online donation.
Year 7 – 10 Photography Exhibition
Please join us on Tuesday the 10th of June for the opening of the Year 7 – 10 Art and Photography Exhibition. Taking place from 5:30pm – 7pm at Sacred Heart Mezzanine at the Abbotsford, all are welcome.
The exhibition will remain on view until the 13th of June.
Winter Solstice
We are delighted to invite the entire Preshil community to our annual Winter Solstice celebration at the Primary School campus (Arlington). Join us on Thursday, 26th June from 3:30pm to 6:30pm for an evening of festivities.
The Winter Solstice celebration features a variety of musical performances, delicious food and drinks, a spectacular bonfire, and our much-anticipated lantern parade.
This year, we are committed to sustainability, so please remember to bring your own mugs and spoons for the soup. A washing station will be set up outside Kevin Borland Hall for your convenience.
You can find the runtime of the evening below.
Preshil Careers Hub
Discover everything you need to make a successful transition through high school and into the ‘real world’. Sign up to receive our Pathways & Careers Newsletters, access the latest guides on life and money management, work experience opportunities, and parent resources. You can also connect with the Careers and Pathways Team for personalised support. Click the link below for more information on Preshil’s Careers Hub.
THE WEEK AHEAD
- Public Holiday
- All Day: BK – Year 10 Exams Commence
- 9:15am – 10:45am: Arlington – Open Morning
- 10:00am – 12:00pm: Arlington – Walk Around the Block
- 1:45pm – 2:00pm: Blackhall – New Zealand Snow Camp Meeting – Library Presentation
- 5:30pm – 7:30pm: Blackhall – Year 7 – 10 Photography Exhibition – Sacred Heart Mezzanine, Good Shepherd Chapel, 1 St Heliers st Abbotsford
- All Day: BK – Year 10 Exams Continue
- 9:00am – 3:00pm: Blackhall – Year 7 – 10 Photography Exhibition – Sacred Heart Mezzanine, Good Shepherd Chapel, 1 St Heliers st Abbotsford
- 9:15am – 10:45am: BK – Open Morning
- 3:15pm – 4:00pm – BK – Year 9 Central Australia Camp Pre-departure check-in with staff and students
- All Day: BK – Year 10 Exams Continue
- 9:00am – 3:00pm: Blackhall – Year 7 – 10 Photography Exhibition – Sacred Heart Mezzanine, Good Shepherd Chapel, 1 St Heliers st Abbotsford
- 9:00am – 10:30am: Arlington – Year 4 Blackhall Experience
- 9:30am – 11:00am: Blackhall – Year 7 & 10 Immunisations
- All Day: BK – Year 10 Exams Continue
- 8:45am – 12:30pm: Blackhall – Year 12 Art Excursion – Year 7 – 10 Photography Exhibition. Sacred Heart Mezzanine, Good Shepherd Chapel, 1 St Heliers st Abbotsford
- 9:00am – 3:00pm: Blackhall – Year 7 – 10 Photography Exhibition – Sacred Heart Mezzanine, Good Shepherd Chapel, 1 St Heliers st Abbotsford
