Governor Stirling Senior High School eNewsletter

End of Term Newsletter – Term 3 Wrap-Up

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we reach the end of another incredibly full and rewarding term, it never ceases to amaze us just how much can be achieved in just ten weeks!

Term Highlights

This term has been packed with activities and milestones: Year 10 subject selections and OLNA assessments were completed, we farewelled our Year 12 cohort, celebrated RUOK? Day, and enjoyed a vibrant calendar of events across the school. From our Art Showcase and music concerts to athletics carnivals, netball lightning carnivals, and the inspiring annual Winter Sleep Out - there truly has been something for everyone.

A special thank you to our Student Councillors, who braved the freezing conditions during the Winter Sleep Out to raise funds and awareness for the Blue Tree Project. We also sincerely thank Ms Bowe and the dedicated staff who supported this initiative.

Staff Farewells and Changes

This term, we also farewell our long-standing Head of Learning Area for English, Mr Thomas Jones, as he steps into an exciting new role as Deputy Principal at another school. We thank him for his incredible contribution to our school community and wish him all the best.

We also extend our thanks to Mr Lee Barclay, who has done a wonderful job stepping in as Principal while Mr Leo Surjan has been on long service leave during the final weeks of the term.

Senior School Preparation

Our Year 11 & 12 Program Coordinator and VET Coordinator have worked closely with Year 10 students and their families to guide them through Senior School subject selections—an important milestone in their educational journey.

We extend our thanks to Mr Andrew Davini and Mrs Naomi Bunch, as well as the many staff who supported this process, often on top of their regular teaching duties.

PVA & Physical Education Highlights

The Performing and Visual Arts department has had an outstanding term—kicking off with Music Camp and continuing with a range of concerts, drama and media excursions, and the much-loved Annual Art Showcase.

Meanwhile, the Physical Education team has been just as active, coordinating the Interschool Carnival, Outdoor Education camps, and hosting the ASP AFL trials and matches.

We acknowledge all departments for their outstanding efforts throughout Term 3. We know staff from every area have gone above and beyond to support one another and ensure the success of our programs.

RUOK? Day

Our RUOK? Day celebration was another standout moment. With over 600 sausages sizzling on the BBQ, pancakes, fairy floss, and an ice cream van, the day had a real festival feel. More importantly, it gave students the opportunity to connect and support one another—reminding us all of the power of simply asking, “Are you OK?”

Farewell to the Class of 2025

Finally, we say goodbye to our Year 12 students—the Class of 2025. Their journey has been one of growth, effort, and success. While we’re sad to see them go, we’re incredibly proud of their achievements and excited to see what the future holds.

No matter where life takes them, they will always remain a part of the GOVO family. We look forward to celebrating their achievements at the Year 12 Awards Ceremony, to be held at UWA on 22 October.

We wish everyone a safe, restful, and well-deserved term break. Thank you for your continued support throughout Term 3.

Warm regards,
Governor Stirling Senior High School

School Uniform

Student Services Seeking Donations of Pre-Loved Uniforms

As we approach the end of the school year, Student Services is kindly requesting donations of pre-loved school uniforms that are no longer needed. If your child has outgrown their uniform, updated to new items, or is graduating, we would greatly appreciate any items you’re able to pass on.

These donated uniforms will be used to support students and families who may be unable to purchase new uniforms, helping us maintain equity and school pride across our community.

Please drop off any clean, used uniforms (both tops and bottoms) to Student Services at your earliest convenience.

Uniform Policy Reminder

A reminder to all families and students that wearing the full school uniform every day is a requirement. This includes both the correct top and bottom items. Students who are not in full uniform may be issued a detention and could lose Good Standing points.

Uniform Availability

Uniforms are available year-round at our uniform provider, Perm-a-Pleat in Midland. The store will also be open during the school holidays, making it easy for parents and carers to update uniforms as needed.

Thank you for your support in helping us uphold our uniform standards.

In Store Perm-A-Pleat, 31C Victoria St, Midland WA 6056.

Annual Arts Showcase Exhibition

The Arts Showcase Exhibition Open Night, held on 17 September, was once again a fantastic event, drawing a great turnout of parents, current students, former students, and staff. The evening was a celebration of the creativity and dedication shown by our talented students throughout the year.

Mrs Olga Konstantouras, Head of Learning Area for Performing and Visual Arts (PVA), expressed her sincere appreciation for the incredible work of the Arts department staff in supporting students to reach their full potential. The school also acknowledges Mrs Konstantouras for her passion and leadership in guiding the PVA team.

Congratulations to all the students whose work is currently on display in the school foyer. The dedication, creativity, and skill on show are a true reflection of the vibrant Arts culture at Governor Stirling Senior High School. The Arts staff and students continue to inspire with their talent and commitment.

2025 Annual Arts Showcase Open Night.

On Friday 19 September, the Year 7 Artsmedia and Gifted and Talented HASS classes set out for the WA Museum Boola Bardip (Many Stories) to attend the Terracotta Warriors exhibition. Students had the opportunity to explore the exhibit which featured hundreds of artefacts including life-size terracotta warriors which were buried with Qin Shihuang, the Emperor of the Qin Dynasty. The exhibition included a fascinating collection of artefacts, presented alongside engaging digital displays, projections, and interactive activities. After the exhibition, students participated in a Debating History Workshop, taking a deep dive into the roles of archaeologists and completing hands-on activities involving the mapping, identification and analysis of various artefacts. The excursion engaged and challenged students to think outside the box and raise considered questions about archaeology and the study of ancient humans. Students represented the school with pride and their excellent engagement and behaviour was noted by museum staff.

Year 7 ASP Artsmedia and HaSS Excursion.

Year 12’s Last Week of School - A Celebration to Remember!

The final week of Term 3 was packed with excitement, reflection, and heartfelt farewells for our Year 12 students as they wrapped up their schoolwork and prepared to graduate.

Wednesday, 24 September, marked the end of Year 12 exams. Congratulations to all for your hard work and dedication!

Yesterday, Thursday, 25 September, the fun truly began with Celebration Day. Students embraced the theme “Mini Me” by dressing up to recreate their childhood photos, a nostalgic and entertaining way to relive those early years. The day kicked off bright and early with a Farewell Breakfast for Year 12 students and staff, held at 7:45 am by the back canteen overlooking the riverbank, a perfect spot to share laughs and memories.

Later in the day, those who purchased graduation caps enjoyed decorating them during Period 3, adding a personal touch to their graduation attire. Before heading home, students gathered in the Performing Arts Centre to watch a heartfelt Year 12 Memories Slideshow, celebrating the incredible journey they’ve shared, beautifully put together by the students themselves.

Today is all about farewells and final preparations. Dressed in full school uniform, students collected their yearbooks this morning and will attend a special Year 12 Farewell Assembly in the school gymnasium.

It has been a wonderful end to an important chapter for our Year 12 cohort, full of laughter, reflection, and celebration. We wish them all the best for their graduation and beyond!

Governor Stirling Senior High School has welcomed Mr James Ewing as its new Approved Specialist AFL Program (ASP AFL) Co-ordinator for 2025, bringing a wealth of playing and coaching experience to the role.

Mr Ewing’s football journey is both impressive and extensive. A passionate player and dedicated coach, he has played WAFL football for Peel Thunder and the Perth Demons and is currently part of the West Coast Eagles' extended squad. His development as a player was further shaped by training with the Fremantle Dockers during the 2020 and 2021 pre-seasons - opportunities that gave him a unique insight into the demands and intricacies of elite-level football.

Beyond the playing field, Mr Ewing has built a strong foundation as a coach. He has worked with the Penrhos College girls’ AFL football team and, in 2023 he took on the role of backline coach for the Perth Demons Reserves. His coaching philosophy includes detailed video analysis and personalised feedback, aimed at helping players better understand the game and refine their individual skill sets.

Mr Ewing holds a Master of Teaching and a degree in Exercise and Sport Science, equipping him with a deep understanding of athletic development. His approach to strength and conditioning focuses on correct movement patterns and age-appropriate gym programs that support long-term physical growth. “It’s about building strength safely and with confidence,” he says.

His vision for the ASP AFL program at Governor Stirling SHS is clear - to elevate it to a more professional standard. This includes filming and analysing student gameplay, implementing targeted strength programs, and fostering a deeper understanding of what it takes to excel - both on and off the field.

Governor Stirling SHS is in the process of purchasing new equipment and up-grades on facilities to support these game plan improvements. Equipment such as a HUDL camera system, which enables in-depth game recording and analysis to enhance individual and team performance will be introduced under Mr Ewing’s coaching. The ASP AFL Program at Governor Stirling SHS welcomes Mr Ewing’s improvements to the school. Such upgrades will help ensure that our AFL program remains aligned with industry standards and continues to meet the demands of this high-performance sport.

Central to Mr Ewing’s leadership is a focus on culture. He is committed to instilling values of discipline, accountability, and personal responsibility among students. “Football can be a powerful motivator,” he explains. “It’s an opportunity for young people to grow not only as athletes, but as individuals who contribute positively to their school and community.”

With a strong foundation in both sport and education, Mr James Ewing is poised to lead the ASP AFL program into an exciting new chapter at Governor Stirling SHS.

The ASP AFL Program at Governor Stirling SHS is a full-time course available from Years 7 to 12, offering four contact hours per week for skills development, training, and match play. Senior students complete a Certificate II in Sport and Recreation, with the program producing many rising AFL and WAFL talents such as David Ellard, Nathan Broad, Nic Naitanui, Rory Lobb, Todd Banfield, Troy Longmuir, just to name a few.

Applications are now open for Years 7–10, and both boys and girls are encouraged to apply. Visit govo.wa.edu.au or contact (08) 6274 0300 for more information or to register interest.

**New ASP AFL**
**Program Coordinator –**
**Mr James Ewing.**

Year 9 Drama Students Explore Real-World Issues Through Forum Theatre

The Constable Care Foundation, through its youth-focused initiative YC Youth Choices, is a long-standing organisation that partners with schools to deliver engaging educational programs. One such initiative is the Intensive Forum Theatre Program, an arts-based project designed to promote creative problem-solving and empower young people to build positive, prosocial communities.

Throughout Term 3, YC Youth Choices delivered a series of workshops to the Year 9 Drama class. These sessions provided a safe and supportive environment for students to explore real-life issues relevant to their daily lives and social circles. Students developed practical coping strategies and resilience skills that can be applied both inside and outside the classroom.

The workshops tackled a range of important topics that teenagers commonly face, including bullying, substance abuse, violence prevention, personal relationships, friendship challenges, community engagement, and online safety.

The program culminated in a performance by the Year 9 Drama students, who presented scenes based on these complex social issues. Students from Years 7 and 8 attended the performance and were invited to participate by suggesting resilient and positive solutions to the problems portrayed on stage, turning passive viewing into a powerful, interactive learning experience.

Well done to all the students involved for their thoughtful contributions and creative efforts in making this project such a success!

Serious Issue are an Important Role for Year 9 Drama.

Music Concert

It was such a joy to see our students perform with enthusiasm, pride, and passion. The sense of community in the room was truly heartwarming, a reminder of what makes our school so special. Thank you for all the hard work and dedication of all the students involved.

A big thank you also to the families and staff who came along to support our young performers

And a very special shoutout to our amazing music teacher Kiran, along with the talented IMSS instrumental tutors; Bill, Oliver, Rita, Nicole, Imogen, Tanya, and Michaela. Your dedication, musical expertise, and the way you nurture our students’ creativity and confidence is nothing short of inspiring.

Congratulations again to all the students who performed!

2025 Annual Music Concert.

MAALI News

Click here to download the Maali Centre Newsletter Term 3 2025

ASP AFL Program News

Congratulations to Year 12 students, Kyle McAlpine and Hayden Young, as well as Year 11 student Kye Hrabar for their recent selection in the Metro Central Team of the Year. These students went on to represent the division in a round-robin competition against Metro North and Metro South. They not only competed strongly but also helped secure the overall win for Metro Central.

Congratulations to the boys on both their selection and their success at the carnival!

**Kyle McAlpine, Hayden Young and Kye Hrabar.**

Interhouse Athletics Carnival

On Friday, 12 October, we held our House Athletics Carnival—and what a day it was! With beautiful weather, vibrant faction colours, and an outstanding attitude from students, the atmosphere was full of energy, enthusiasm, and school spirit.

We’re excited to share that student participation increased by an impressive 49.96% compared to last year, with 244 students getting involved. This incredible result is a true reflection of the growing enthusiasm and strong support within our school community.

A huge thank you goes out to all students who participated and showed fantastic team spirit, as well as to our amazing Health and Physical Education (HPE) team, student volunteers, and staff helpers who made the day such a success.

Faction results will be announced soon—stay tuned!

Students Get Into the Spirit of the House Athletics Carnival.

**Congratulations, Garrison! The entire Govo community is behind you.**

We are proud to announce that Garrison Kenh has been selected to play in the prestigious Under 17 National Futures Game, which will take place at the MCG ahead of this year’s AFL Grand Final.

This elite match features the top 17-year-old football talent from across the country, and Garrison is one of only eight players from Western Australia to earn a spot—an incredible achievement!

Garrison will play under the guidance of recently retired Port Adelaide legend, Travis Boak, while the opposing team will be coached by former Carlton and Brisbane Lions star, Sam Docherty.

The game will be broadcast nationally, so be sure to tune in and support Garrison as he takes the field on one of the biggest stages in Australian sport.

Year 12 Outdoor Education Camp

Our Year 12 Outdoor Education students embarked on their much-anticipated Outdoor Camp, held from Monday 1st to Friday 5th September 2025. The camp, a core component of the Outdoor Education curriculum, provided students with an invaluable opportunity to put classroom theory into action in a real-world setting.

Participation in this camp plays a significant role in students’ final assessment for the subject. Throughout the week, students were assessed on a number of key criteria, including leadership, safety, independent thinking, and personal responsibility—each contributing to their overall achievement in the course.

We congratulate all Year 12 Outdoor Education students for their commitment and commendable conduct throughout the camp.

Year 12 Outdoor Education Camp.

Book Week

Another Fun-Filled Book Week at Govo!

Book Week at Govo was once again a huge hit, filled with fun, games, and a whole lot of creativity. It was hard to tell who enjoyed it more, the students or the staff!

Each day brought a new activity that sparked enthusiastic student participation and of course, the lure of some fantastic prizes helped add to the excitement. This year’s major prizes included a $100 JB Hi-Fi gift card and a Mission Impossible wireless charger with speaker.

Book Week continues to be one of the highlights of our school calendar, and this year was no exception. One of the standout moments was Dress-Up Day, where both staff and students went above and beyond with their costume creations. Some disguises were so clever, it became a real challenge to guess who was who!

A big thank you to everyone who got involved and made the week so memorable. We’re already looking forward to Book Week 2026…rumour has it, some of our book-loving planners have already started working on their costumes - stay tuned!

Thank you to our dedicated English Department staff for their efforts in planning such a successful Book Week, and to our amazing librarian, Mrs Tina Russo, for always making books fun and engaging.

Book Week 2025.

The Winter Sleep Out

On Wednesday, 27 August, the Student Council hosted our 3rd Annual Winter Sleepout, and it turned out to be our coldest (and wettest!) one yet! Despite the challenging weather, 20 incredibly brave students from Years 7 to 12 came together for a night that was both eye-opening and deeply meaningful.

Each year, this event is a reminder of just how fortunate many of us are and how important it is to develop empathy and understanding for those who experience homelessness. As tough as it is to prepare knowing you’ll be sleeping outside, the impact is lasting and powerful.

We were fortunate to be joined by Tanya Richardson, Mayor of the City of Swan, who participated in our icebreaker activities and shared valuable insights about the role of local government, the impact of homelessness, and the city’s future direction. Her support truly added to the experience.

This year, we are proud to be raising funds for the Blue Tree Project, an incredible initiative dedicated to breaking down the stigma around mental health, encouraging open conversations, and spreading awareness through their iconic blue trees.

Our students spent the night reflecting on the challenges of sleeping rough and how mental health can both contribute to and be impacted by homelessness.

Thank you to our entire school community for your ongoing support. We hope to see even more students and staff take part next year!