2019 School Magazine

French Affiliate School T here are few words that can describe what it is like to ‘adopt’ a sister or brother for 10 days, but here are a few: extraordinary, unforgettable and honestly, hilarious. This was my second year of hosting a French exchange student and my family and I enjoyed the experience. Welcoming a stranger into your house is no easy task, particularly when they may not be proficient in your own language but my experience with our exchange students, Maïwen and Emma, has been nothing short of incredible. Hosting a foreign student is both gratifying and humbling, which is why it is an experience that I always whole-heartedly recommend to fellow students. Having been an exchange student myself, I particularly enjoy hosting French students, as we have a surprising amount in common and immersing someone in the Australian culture is something that I thoroughly enjoy— particularly when they have their first taste of vegemite! Letitia Harper (11G) AFFILIATE SCHOOL VISITS

Year 7 Prefects W e were overcome with joy to be appointed as Prefects for Year 7 Mackay. Year 7 is such a monumental year as it is, for most students, where their Girls Grammar journey begins. We were honoured to be able to guide our younger sisters through their first year of secondary school, just like our own Year 12 Prefects had done for us. We were privileged to watch girls adapt to life at the School and help them on this exciting journey. Working with Year 7 students also allowed us to refine our leadership skills. We thank Ms Boyle and Year 7 House Group teachers for helping us support the next generation of Grammar girls. Finally, to the Year 7 girls, congratulations! We hope you are proud of yourselves for finishing your first year of secondary school and are looking forward to sharing the next five years with some wonderful friends and incredible teachers. Erin Christmas (12M) and Lucy Rayner-Toy (12M) Year 8 Prefects A s Year 8 Prefects, our role was to help shape a positive experience for Year 8 Gibson girls. Being in Year 8, girls are accustomed to life at Girls Grammar but from time to time, still require advice and support from their older peers. Throughout the year, we worked closely with House Group Captains to organise games, activities and competitions both within the House Group and against other Houses. We hoped to keep our bubbly group of girls entertained each time we visited, but of course we also had to act as role models—ribbons, badges, and a positive attitude were a must. Most importantly, we created strong friendships with each and every girl in our House Group. We could not have asked for a better leadership role this year and will forever cherish our time with the Year 8 students. Zoe Ferguson (12G) and Gemma Rowland-King (12G) Year 9 Prefects B eing a Year 9 Prefect has been an unforgettable and fulfilling experience. We have developed many close friendships with the Year 9 girls and embraced the Girls Grammar sisterhood. Being a role model for the Year 9 girls was a truly amazing experience where we were able to develop our leadership skills. However, the most rewarding part in this journey was being able to watch the girls develop and mature throughout the year. Alexandra Pearson (12O) YEAR 7, 8 AND 9 PREFECTS

Japanese Affiliate School A t the beginning ofTerm3, I had the privilege of hosting an exchange student from Mie High School in Japan. I hosted Kako, a Year 9 student, who is passionate about Debating, English and Snoopy. Kako was able to learn about Australian culture—even things we take for granted, such as using a knife and fork. She loved seeing Brisbane attractions such as the Story Bridge, Mt Coot-tha Lookout and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, as well as travelling to the Gold Coast. I have been learning Japanese for three years and through this experience, I was able to expand my skills. I felt that I formed a strong bond with my host sister and gained a new friend. I still communicate with Kako and we often practise our language skills. This was an opportunity of a lifetime, and I would recommend it to any student who studies Japanese. Sophie Lillyman (8B)

BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL 2019 | 045