Deputy Principal
Deputy Principal
ANZAC Day 2026
One of the great privileges of schooling is to help children and young people understand their responsibilities and obligations as citizens of Australia. To be educated is to know one’s own history and the role we each play in knowing, maintaining and propagating our national identity.
ANZAC Day is an important moment in Australia’s civic calendar. On ANZAC Day we remember and celebrate the service, sacrifice, and courage of all Australians and New Zealanders in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. We especially remember those who have paid the ultimate price in securing the safety of our nation. We remember, as well, those who have been impacted by their sacrifice.
It is important for our students to know the history of Australia’s engagement in war and global peace-keeping efforts so that they rightly honour the sacrifices of our servicemen and women and never take for granted what they have achieved for our nation.
This week we will commemorate ANZAC Day in a number of ways with our students. There will be ANZAC Commemorative Assemblies in the Junior and Senior Schools. These assemblies are mostly led by our students so that they are placed centrally within the stories we are narrating and the rituals we are enacting. Further to this, I will be taking the Junior School Captains and Senior School Head Prefects to the Dawn Service on Saturday morning at the Cenotaph in McCabe Park. Our school leaders will lay a wreath on behalf of the School during the Dawn Service Ceremony to acknowledge those who have served and to indicate that we as a school community stand with all who have been impacted by war.
Lest we forget.
Junior School News
Head of Junior School
Welcome to Term II. We have had a smooth start and it has been a pleasure to see our students return settled, focused and ready to learn. Term II promises to be a rewarding term, offering many opportunities for learning and growth. I look forward to continuing to get to know our Illawarra Grammar community.
Our students are to be congratulated on the grit and House spirit they showed during the Cross Country Carnival on Tuesday. It was wonderful to see our students encouraging their peers and being cheered on by parents and carers who came to spectate.
On Wednesday a group of students from Years 5 and 6 participated in the Illawarra Regional da Vinci Decathlon, a competition designed to challenge their academic skills, collaboration and critical thinking. Both groups represented Illawarra Grammar with pride, demonstrating grace and determination as they worked through each challenge as a team.
Year 6 achieved 1st place overall, with exceptional results including:
1st place in Mathematics, Creative Producers, Art and Poetry, and Legacy;
2nd place in Code Breaking;
3rd place in Science, Ideation and Cartography.
Year 5 achieved 2nd place overall, with wonderful results including:
1st place in English and Creative Producers;
2nd place in Mathematics and Legacy;
3rd place in Art and Poetry.
Yesterday, our Junior School students demonstrated gratitude and respect at our ANZAC Day Assembly, participating thoughtfully in this important act of remembrance. Over the weekend, our Junior School Captains and Senior School Head Prefects will attend the Wollongong Dawn Service as representatives of our School.
We look forward to many significant events throughout the term, including our move into the Hoskins Building, which is scheduled to take place later this term.
This term, we warmly welcome Mrs Megan Arnet, who has joined us from the Piper Centre, on Year 2. Our 2J class has had a great start to the term with Mrs Arnet. We also acknowledge Mr Jorgensen-Hull, who has commenced his role as Director of Teaching and Learning, and Mrs Jessica Allard, who has begun her role as Director of Academic and Pastoral Care. Mrs Rebecca Grneski continues in her role as Director of Campus. We are fortunate at Illawarra Grammar to have an expert team of professionals who know the children well and how they learn.
I have been impressed with the pride that our students have in themselves and their uniforms. Thank you for ensuring that all students are wearing their full winter uniform, including blazers for students in Years 3-6. Please take care to ensure that all students have appropriate hairstyles, shoes and jewellery. Our uniform standards promote a strong sense of pride, respect and belonging among our students. Your ongoing support helps reinforce these expectations and ensures consistency across the School. The uniform guide is available to view here.
Please continue to check your child’s OLLE page regularly for important updates, including event details, class information and upcoming activities.
We’re looking forward to another positive and purposeful term ahead.
Upcoming important dates:
- Monday 27 April – ANZAC Day Public Holiday (no school)
- Thursday 7 May – Junior School P&F Mother’s Day Stall
- Friday 8 May – Junior School P&F Mother’s Day Breakfast
View more dates in the “Dates for Your Diary” section at the end of this newsletter.
The Illawarra Grammar School Cross Country Carnival was held on Tuesday 21 April at the Kembla Joggers Cross Country Course and was a fantastic showcase of participation, perseverance and community spirit.
Throughout the day, students demonstrated outstanding commitment, supported by enthusiastic encouragement from their House groups. The level of House spirit was a standout feature of the carnival, with students proudly wearing their House colours, cheering team mates across every race and supporting competitors of all ages. This energy created an uplifting atmosphere and highlighted the strong sense of connection and pride within each House.
In the Junior School, Wolgal won the House Championships with 3,308 points. Kogara came second (3,091 points), Coligan third (2,892 points), and Aranda fourth (2,792 points).
A sincere thank you to all staff and the volunteers from Kembla Joggers for their time, expertise and support in helping to make the carnival such a great success.
Age Champions:
8/9 years
Girls
1. Grace Ward
2. Harper Pan
3. Stephanie Pan
Boys
1. Austin Ju
2. Cooper McCormack
3. Bobby McGowan
10 years
Girls
1. Madeleine Bessell
2. Yuxuan Ren
3. Iris Nicolaides
Boys
1. Isaac Greenhalgh
2. Finlay Rowe
3. Jack Bailey
11 years
Girls
=1. Mila Douna
=1. Eva Heritage
3. Juliette Smits
Boys
1. Sebastian Larsson
2. Gus Parrish
3. Kristian Eriksson
12 years
Girls
1. Cara Serfontein
2. Nissi Adu-Amponsah
3. Charlie Hewlett-Robins
Boys
1. Jonty Greenhalgh
2. Charbel Douna
3. Kealen Bessell
Junior School Mother’s Day Stall – Thursday 7 May
Students will have the opportunity to shop at the TIGS P&F Mother’s Day Stall, where a portion of each gift will go towards P&F school fundraising.
Ticket/gift sales close Friday 1 May. Please follow this link to make a purchase.
Junior School Mother’s Day Breakfast – Friday 8 May
Junior School families are invited to the annual Mother’s Day Breakfast in Rees Hall, where students can enjoy a special morning with their mums and caregivers. Please follow this link to RSVP.
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Senior School News
Head of Senior School
Term breaks offer a welcome opportunity to pause and refocus. I hope the Easter break provided families time for rest and connection. Our Senior School students seem to have returned refreshed and ready to build on the strong foundations established in Term I.
Over the past term, I have been encouraged by the steady development of positive habits across the Senior School. Consistent routines, thoughtful engagement with learning and growing independence are clear signs of maturity in our students. These habits support academic success while developing grit, self-discipline and work ethic as pillars of character.
Term II brings increased academic demands and a deepening of cocurricular commitment. At times the colder months can feel like a grind. As students meet these challenges, they are encouraged to draw on their resilience and perseverance, supported by a community that values both effort and progress across all elements of school life and beyond. Our culture of belonging ensures students are known, supported and encouraged to pursue excellence.
Partnership between home and school underpins student success. When expectations around routines, balance, rest and wellbeing are aligned, students gain the confidence and clarity needed to thrive.
As we move into the term ahead, I am grateful for the strength of our community and optimistic about what our students will continue to achieve together. Term II brings a range of shared experiences, including parent–teacher evenings, examination blocks and half‑yearly reports, the Year 10 Vietnam Service Trip, a broad program of sporting fixtures and the Athletics Carnival, and our school production of The Wizard of Oz.
We are pleased to see renewed focus in our Careers program under the leadership of our new Careers Adviser this year, Mrs Catherine Bargmann. As part of this work, we are excited to launch our revamped Careers OLLE pages for students in Years 10 to 12 and their families, designed to support students as they explore future pathways and make informed decisions about life beyond school.
Each year group now has a dedicated Careers OLLE page, providing pathway information for both higher education and vocational education and training, guidance on accessing our work experience program, and practical resources to support job applications, including resumes, cover letters and interview preparation.
Access the Careers OLLE pages below:
We encourage parents and students to explore these pages together and use them as a practical starting point for conversations about strengths, aspirations and future opportunities.
Illawarra Careers Expo 2026
Students are strongly encouraged to attend the Illawarra Careers Expo 2026 to explore the best post-school pathways available across NSW and beyond. This is a free community event showcasing over 100 universities, TAFEs, apprenticeship and traineeship providers, and industry organisations.
When: Tuesday 5 May 2026
Time: 2.30 – 5.00 pm (public session)
Where: Illawarra Sports & Community Precinct, Berkeley
Cost: Free entry. No registration required
Transport: Own transport. Public Transport Link
This expo is a valuable opportunity to explore post‑school pathways, ask questions directly to providers, and gain ideas for future study and careers. Senior students, in particular, will find it helpful when planning next steps beyond school.
All students and families are warmly encouraged to attend.
Our Term II cocurricular programs are now well underway, offering students a wide range of opportunities to extend their interests, develop skills and build connections beyond the classroom. Our debating teams, and academic enrichment activities are in competition mode alongside our vast sporting programs and the broad range of musical ensembles which are rehearsing toward upcoming performances.
Students are encouraged to involve themselves fully in the life of the School through participation in cocurricular activities, where engagement fosters confidence, resilience and a strong sense of belonging. The Term overview and further information can be found on OLLE.
The Illawarra Grammar School Cross Country Carnival was held on Tuesday 21 April at the Kembla Joggers Cross Country Course and was a fantastic showcase of participation, perseverance and community spirit.
Throughout the day, students demonstrated outstanding commitment, supported by enthusiastic encouragement from their House groups. The level of House spirit was a standout feature of the carnival, with students proudly wearing their House colours, cheering teammates across every race and supporting competitors of all ages. This energy created an uplifting atmosphere and highlighted the strong sense of connection and pride within each House.
Congratulations to Kogara House which claimed overall victory with 5,105 points. The remaining places were Coligan in second (5,034 points), Aranda in third (4,809 points) and Wolgal in fourth (4,742 points). The close point totals reflected the competitive nature of the day and the collective effort shown by all Houses.
A sincere thank you to all staff and the volunteers from Kembla Joggers for their time, expertise and support in helping to make the carnival such a great success.
Age Champions:
12 years
Girls
1. Abigail Sharratt
2. Lexi McCarney
3. Delphine Garrick
Boys
1. Jasper Vickers
2. Matthew Peake
13 years
Girls
1. Chelsea Eastwood
2. Bronte Vermey
3. Olivia Talbot
Boys
1. Ryan Connolly
2. Tamo Karl
3. Owen Bridge
14 years
Girls
1. Jasmine Corbett
2. Molly Payten
3. Chloe Greenhalgh
Boys
1. Owen Olbourne
2. Orson Krishnayya
3. Lucas Meades
15 years
Girls
1. Rubina Payten
2. Lia Leung
3. Allegra Fosteris
Boys
1. Harry McCrone
2. Max Serfontein
3. Liam Perrins
16 years
Girls
1. Matilda Vermey
2. Tamara Bridge
3. Chelsea Bessell
Boys
1. Patrick Reid
2. James Meades
3. Chi Him (Connor) Chan
17 years
Girls
1. Annie Martin
2. Aubrey Koll
3. Evelyn Sanzone
Boys
1. Michael Mitchell
2. Jack Gibson
3. Oliver Grneski
18 years
Girls
1. Ashleigh Ellis
2. Shin-Yu (Alicia) Su
3. Abigail Kus
Boys
1. Ashton Grace
2. Robbie Lavalle
3. Isaac Turner
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (DofE) is available to students internationally from 14 years of age. The DofE framework is intentionally student driven, with participants choosing their own activities and working towards achieving Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award levels.
The program encourages personal growth by supporting students’ engagement in volunteering, physical activity, skills development, and adventurous journeys. Through these experiences, students build resilience, confidence, life skills, and strong community connections.
While the DofE is structured so that students can design their own unique program, centred around their interests and passions, The Illawarra Grammar School is a Duke of Edinburgh Award Centre, supporting our students to engage fully in the scheme.
Below are some important dates and information for Illawarra Grammar students interested in commencing their Bronze Award or continuing with their Silver and Gold Awards.
Bronze Award Information Evening for students and their parents wishing to embark on the first level of the DofE program: Wednesday 29 April
Bronze Adventurous Journey Qualifier: 16 – 18 September (Year 9 Camp)
Silver Adventurous Journey Practice: 22 – 26 June (Year 10 Camp – Back Country Snow Program)
Silver Adventurous Journey Qualifier: 28 September – 1 October (school holidays)
Gold Award Information Evening for students and their parents wishing to complete the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in 2026: Wednesday 13 May
Gold Adventurous Journey Practice: 6 – 9 October (school holidays)
Gold Adventurous Journey Qualifier: 12 – 18 December (school holidays)
To support students on the DodE Journey, Mr Brian Lichi, Coordinator of Outdoor Education, will be hosting weekly sessions on Wednesdays where any student engaged in the DofE program can receive support to support their momentum toward Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards.
General School News
Tickets are now available for Illawarra Grammar’s 2026 School Production of The Wizard of Oz. Join us as our students bring this much‑loved musical to life with vibrant performances on stage, in the orchestra and behind the scenes.
Performances will take place from 18-20 June, with evening and matinee sessions available. Tickets are limited due to the staging configuration, and early booking is encouraged.
We invite students from Kindergarten to Year 12 who learn an instrument, either externally or at School, to participate in our Music Academy Concerts.
The concerts provide an opportunity for our students to hone their performance skills and share their talents with the School community. Parents and carers are welcome to attend these concerts to support our students.
To register your child for a concert, please follow the relevant link below. A Consent2Go will be generated once the registration closing date has passed.
For students who play more than one instrument, please complete a new form for each concert.
The registration closing dates will be strictly adhered to, and late applications will not be accepted.
Term II Concert Dates
Guitar, Drums, Bass Guitar – Thursday 14 May (Week 4)
Closing date for registration: Friday May 1
Concert A: 5.30pm – 6.30pm | Register Here
Strings – Thursday 21 May (Week 5)
Closing date for registration: Friday May 8
Concert A: 3.30pm – 4.15pm | Register Here
Concert B: 4.30pm – 5.30pm | Register Here
Concert C: 5.30pm – 6.30pm | Register Here
Vocal – Thursday 4 June (Week 7)
Closing date for registration: Friday May 22
Concert A: 4.30pm – 5.15pm | Register Here
Concert B: 5.30pm – 6.30pm | Register Here
Piano – Thursday 11 June (Week 8)
Closing date for registration: Friday 29 May
Concert A: 3.30pm – 4.15pm | Register Here
Concert B: 4.30pm – 5.15pm | Register Here
Concert C: 5.30pm – 6.30pm | Register Here
Brass and Woodwind – Thursday 25 June (Week 10)
Closing date for registration: Friday 12 June
Concert A: 5.30pm – 6.30pm | Register Here
Join Music Academy – Enrol in Private Music Lessons
At Illawarra Grammar, we have a team of experienced instrumental tutors who can enhance and strengthen your child’s proficiency and love of music.
We offer private lessons across a wide variety of instruments; a full list is detailed in the application form linked below. Lessons are conducted on campus throughout the school day, with some tutors also offering before and after school options.
Please ensure that you read the Music Academy Handbook and the Terms and Conditions before enrolling in lessons.
Join us for the official opening of the Hoskins Building and the Summerill Kitchen.
Date: Friday 15 May
Time: 3.30pm – 5.00pm
This special event will take the form of an open house, with guests invited to explore the new building and discover the many opportunities it offers our students. Several spaces will be alive with activity, including but not limited to a Q&A panel on the sustainability of the building, afternoon tea at the Summerill Kitchen, a book signing in the new Library, demonstrations in the STEM lab, and short talks from distinguished guests – many of whom are alumni returning to be among the first to use these spaces. The afternoon will conclude with the official ribbon cutting.
We look forward to sharing this occasion with you.
RSVP here
The Term II P&F Meeting will take place on Wednesday 27 May from 6.00 – 7.30 pm.
The meeting is held in the Goodhew Library.
To join the meeting online, check the P&F OLLE page for more information.
The P&F is requesting donations of uniforms to their second-hand uniform shop.
Donations can be dropped off to:
- Yellow bin outside Second-Hand Uniform Shop
- Junior and Senior School offices
- TIGS Private Bus Driver
Thank you for your support.
Focus Uniforms will open an onsite uniform shop at TIGS in July 2026. They are seeking part-time and casual staff to run the shop. This would be a great opportunity for a member of our school community.
Learn more here.
The P&F is delighted to invite parents to an upcoming evening with respected guest speaker, Dr Mark Williams, who will join us on campus on the evening of June 1, 2026. Dr Williams brings deep insight into adolescent development and wellbeing, offering families thoughtful and practical perspectives on supporting young people through the pre-teen years and adolescence. The opportunity to engage with speakers of this calibre reflects our commitment to partnering closely with parents in the shared work of forming confident, resilient and purposeful young people.
Further details will be shared shortly, and we warmly encourage families to take part in what promises to be an enriching evening.
More about Dr Williams: Mark A. Williams PhD is a professor of cognitive neuroscience with over 25 years experience conducting behavioural and brain imaging research. His research forms the basis of understanding adolescent development.
Mark has published more than 70 scientific articles and received numerous high-profile fellowships and grants. He has made many TV and radio appearances to discuss topics including emotions, technology, education, racism, and even why we can’t tickle ourselves. His research has been featured in outlets globally including The New York Times, The Economist, The Guardian and New Scientist.
Join us for an exciting evening of entertainment at the Year 12 Charity Trivia Night, proudly hosted by our Year 12 students in support of their chosen charity, Little Wings.
This much-anticipated event is the result of significant student effort and initiative, and we warmly invite our school community to come together in support of this meaningful cause. Guests will enjoy a lively night of trivia, music, games, and a silent auction – all in the spirit of fundraising.
Date: Friday 1 May 2026
Time: Doors open at 5.30pm for a 6.00pm start
Cost: Table of 10 $220 Single Ticket $25
This years theme is ‘Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’. We encourage guests to embrace the theme and dress accordingly. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and purchase alcohol-free beverages on the night.
Please note this is a strictly alcohol-free event. No beverages are to be brought onto the premises.
Follow this link to book your seats.
