Weekly eNews
Ross Featherston
Headmaster, Brighton Grammar SchoolA recent UK study published in the London Review of Education explored the art and science of great teaching, examining what evidence shows to be the most effective practices in primary classrooms.
Researchers found that quality teaching goes far beyond passion or engagement alone: it lies in how teachers structure, scaffold and adapt their instruction to meet individual student needs.
The study reinforced that when teachers explicitly explain concepts, model their thinking, and provide time for guided practice, students develop stronger cognitive and social-emotional skills.
Through purposeful questioning, feedback and examples, teachers can help children understand what to do, why it matters, and how to take the next step, giving learning meaning and relevance by connecting it to the real world.
Importantly, the research also reminds us that there is no single formula for success. Effective teaching is shaped by context, who the learners are, multiple check-ins, and knowing how they best engage.
The most impactful schools are those where teaching practices are deliberate, evidence-informed and continually refining their craft.
This aligns strongly with our approach in both the Junior and Secondary School through our Effective Learner Model:
- Learning dispositions (being ready to learn)
- Learning design (understanding the purpose of the learning)
- Learning process (learning strategies and engagement) and
- Learning culture (positive experiences, acting upon feedback to support successful outcomes)
While classroom learning may ‘look’ different across the school and subject areas, it is all underpinned by the same model that has been an integral part of BGS’s approach for over a decade. We continue to see first-hand the high level of engagement this generates in our students.
If you’re interested in knowing more, watch Dr Ray Swann’s video in this week’s Crowther eNews or reach out to our Crowther Centre team.
Peter Tellefson
Deputy Headmaster, Head of Junior SchoolLast Friday’s House Athletics Carnival was most successful, and we were fortunate that the weather was good to us this year.
I appreciate Aaron French’s excellent organisation and the support all staff provided to ensure the success of the day. Congratulations to our boys for their level of participation, sportsmanship and active support within their House.
Our House competitions generate fantastic team spirit and connectedness, and the boys enjoy the events with plenty of noise and colour. Dixon was crowned House Champions and Hancock was awarded the House Spirit award.
Thank you to those many parents who supported throughout the day. It is events such as this that we gain a strong sense of ‘team’, which in turn benefits our boys and provides them with excellent experiences whilst at school.
Last week, we were delighted to welcome visitors from Hoi An International School (HAIS) to the Junior School, where they joined our Year 6 classrooms. The group took part in a range of engaging activities, including Invicta, Cooking, Art, Drama, and Design & Technology, as well as excursions to the MCG, Eureka Skydeck, Melbourne Aquarium, Sovereign Hill, and Ballarat Wildlife Park.
We hope this cultural exchange program will continue in the years ahead, now that a strong connection has been established with HAIS. Further information about the 2026 program will be shared with our Year 5 families later this term.
Our Outdoor Education program is designed to inspire boys to challenge themselves in the outdoors and have fun. Boys have an opportunity to explore the various natural environments and develop their teamwork and self-reliance.
Our Prep and Year 1s have enjoyed day trips to St Kilda Community Gardens and Point Leo and our Year 2s spent the night in Merricks. Our Year 3 students have spent the past couple of days in Healesville and it’s wonderful to hear they had a great time taking part in a range of activities, with the highlight being the giant flying fox, the ‘Super Swooper’!
With our boys, it is not uncommon to see tears, and that is to be expected as they may experience homesickness, different food and miss the comforts of home. Whilst these experiences build the boys’ resilience, I always admire the support, care and comfort the boys and staff provide to one another.
Thank you to our Outdoor Education staff, Brittany Richards, Sarita Barnett, Emma Monaghan, Bianca Bell, and Lucy Kervin-McDermott, as well as our Prep to Year 3 teachers and Luke Hayes, for their time, support, and care of the boys.
Our 2026 Prep boys spent their final Orientation Morning with us today. It is always an exciting time, and a reminder that the New Year is fast approaching, as our youngest boys commenced the next stage of their schooling. Many of our boys ‘crossed the car park’ from ELC4 and enjoyed their morning activities.
Enjoy the extended weekend!
Wilson House Happenings & Reminders
- Thank you to the JPG and the many parents for their support and generosity in celebrating World Teacher’s Day this week.
- Please mark Friday 14 November in your diary for the Junior Parents’ Group’s Family Fun Night from 4.30 – 8.00pm. This is our major JPG fundraiser for 2025, and I am sure we will all enjoy this year’s event. The organising committee is working hard to ensure this year will be entertaining for all. Further details are available via the BGS app.
- Our Year 4 Young Warrior program will be held on Friday 7 November. The Young Warrior program marks a moment in our boys’ lives, as they approach the upper Primary years, our boys prepare themselves for more independence, responsibility and a greater sense of connection. Further details can be found on the BGS app.
- The Junior Parents’ Group’s AGM is on Tuesday morning 11 November in the GBR Hall at 8.45am. All parents are welcome to attend.
- Our final Prep to Year 6 Parent/Teacher Discussions are listed on the BGS Calendar for Wednesday 19 November 3.30 – 6.00pm, and Thursday 20 November, 3.30 – 8.30pm. Booking information will be available via the BGS app.
Student Achievements
Student Poetry Competition
We are proud to announce that Jaxon Bennett (Year 1) and Preston Liu (Year 2) were awarded an Honourable Mention in this year’s Independent Schools Victoria Student Poetry Competition. Out of over 1300 entries, exploring the theme of gratitude, their poems stood out to the judges, earning this special recognition. See all the winning entries on the Arts Learning Festival website.
Chamber Music Concert – A Musical Afternoon to Remember!
On Tuesday, the GBR Hall came alive with music as our students showcased their talent at the Semester 2 Chamber Music Concert. The Wilson House String Quartet brought us a stunning performance of Castle in the Sky, demonstrating rich musical expression, seamless communication, and impressive teamwork.
The Year 6 Clarinet Ensemble then brought energy and fun to the stage with Groovin’, complete with clicking, stomping, and a playful call-and-response clarinet line. We were also thrilled to witness a special milestone – the first-ever appearance of a bass clarinet in the Junior School!
EMR Athletics Results
Well done to all boys who competed at the EMR Athletics last Thursday. Special mention goes to Teddy Ratnagobal, Joe Wilson, Asher Brown, Jack Moncrieff, and Zane Mtenje in their individual events, who can all be proud of their achievements and will compete at the State Championships next week.
The 9/10 Year relay team of Teddy Ratnagobal, Will McPherson, Will Lyng, Asher Brown and reserves Joe Wilson and Elliot Mace ran an incredible race, winning their event and progressing through to the State Championships.
The 11 Year relay team of James Forbes, Lawson Hollow, Harry Scotis, Hamish Wilson, and reserves Chris Pittis and Ray Chen finished second and progressed through to the State Championships.
The 12/13 Year relay team of Harvey Billings, Zane Mtenje, Jack Tripis, Max Adem, and reserves Jack Bull and Sam Martin finished a close third in the final to make the podium.
Congratulations to all boys involved, and thank you to Aaron French for his work with the boys and parents for their support.
Amelia Barrow
Director of the Early Learning CentreIn the ELC 4 classrooms we strive to create an environment where all students have a safe space in which to explore their thoughts and feelings.
With wellbeing linked closely with improved learning and stronger peer relationships, it is important that we provide experiences that offer opportunities for the boys to enter conversations and be able to describe their feelings.
Experiences such as the duckling hatch invited the boys to communicate with others and watch over the little eggs as a team. Whilst the boys nurtured and cared for the eggs, they shared openly their predictions and hypothesised as to when the eggs would hatch. This experience worked particularly well to help settle any nerves or anxieties the boys may be feeling during these very busy weeks and throughout their transition periods.
This week, we conclude our 2026 Transition Program and will be working towards ELC class allocations. All 2026 ELC families are invited to attend a Parent Information Evening in their new classroom with their teacher on Thursday 13 November, from 7.00-8.00pm. An email will be sent out shortly with further information.
With Cup weekend upon us, a friendly reminder that the Centre is closed for program only and 38-week, Long Day Care boys. We will be coordinating a holiday program for the 48-week enrolled boys on Monday 3 November. Boys can wear their casual clothes on this day. We wish you all a wonderful long weekend, and we can’t wait for all the excitement ahead for the remainder of this term.
Liz Dendrinos
Acting Director of the ELC
Parenting Tip
Myths About Kids and Sleep
If there’s one thing that affects every part of family life – our children’s behaviour, our behaviour, and everyone’s ability to cope – it’s sleep. Sleep is not a luxury item. It’s a biological necessity that cuts to the core of our ability to function well.
Have you noticed how much better you are as a parent when you sleep well? Far too often, parents unknowingly fall for common myths about children’s sleep needs.
Read more from Dr Justin Coulson on kids and sleep.
Olivia Tims
Junior School Psychologist
JPG News
The Brighton Grammar Junior School Family Fun Night is back in 2025!
Join us for a fun night of rides, food trucks and entertainment on the Red Square from 4.30 – 8.00pm on Friday 14 November 2025.
Tickets are $50 per child. The Family Fun Night wristband gives each child unlimited rides. Each child will receive a show bag when the wristband is pre-purchased via Trybooking. Rides are suitable for children 3 years and older. Adults and children under 3 are entry free. Tickets are on sale now.
WIN BIG in our Family Fun Night Raffle
Get ready for your chance to win incredible prizes – and support our annual Family Fun Night while you’re at it!
GRAND PRIZE – A $5000 VIVA Holidays Travel Voucher
Dreaming of your next getaway? This is your ticket to paradise, donated by VIVA Holidays.
SECOND PRIZE – A luxurious Beach Box at Dendy Beach for a full day of sun, surf, and relaxation – the ultimate summer experience!
THIRD PRIZE – A stunning “Wings” Signed Framed Print (1.2m x 60cm) of Jordan de Goey (Collingwood FC) – the perfect collector’s piece for any fan!
Raffle tickets on sale now – $10 per entry or 3 for $25 – Winners drawn 9.00am, Friday 21 November 2025
Pudding and Christmas Cake Varieties available for purchase:
The Brighton Grammar Junior Parents’ Group is delighted to once again offer you a superb range of homemade Mandi’s Christmas Puddings and Christmas Cakes, just in time for Christmas!
- Traditional Christmas Pudding (round 500g, 1Kg, 1.5Kg, 2Kg; log 500g, 1kg)
- Macadamia and Brandy Pudding (log 500g, 1Kg)
- Gluten Free Pudding (round 500g, 1Kg; log 500g, 1kg) (no gluten, lactose or dairy)
- Date and Toffee Pudding (log 500g, 1Kg)
- Triple Chocolate Pudding (log 500g, 1Kg)
- Chocolate and Orange Pudding (log 500g, 1Kg)
- Chocolate Rum and Raisin Pudding (log 500g, 1Kg)
- Mango & Brandy Pudding (log 500g)
- Mandi’s Classic Christmas Cakes (600g or 1.4Kg) (The cakes come beautifully boxed)
FINAL ORDERS BY 5.00pm Thursday 6 November – No late orders can be accepted
The puddings will be sent home with the boys before the end of Term 4.
Orders are open now via TryBooking: https://www.trybooking.com/DGJZY