2020 School Magazine

HEAD GIRLS

Arwen Dias-Jayasinha (12G) and Abbey Grice (12E)

A s we commenced our roles as Head predicted the experiences 2020 has delivered, but one thing is for certain—this has been a year to remember. Through discussions with Student Council, we devised three themes to underpin the School motto—spirit, love, and teamwork. These values led us to the creation of this year’s School motto: 2020—Me and You, Be the Glue that Binds the Blue. We are the first cohort to include the year in our motto—it is a memento of our graduation year and also a symbol of the new decade and journey on which we are all embarking. Although we did not know it at the time, the 2020 School motto would come to encapsulate the very spirit and disposition we needed to succeed and thrive during what was, at times, a tumultuous year. The pandemic could have dampened our spirits, but instead it challenged us to dig deep and find spirit we perhaps didn’t know we had. We are so appreciative of our teachers and fellow Grammar sisters for continuously sharing the love this year. Remote learning was challenging, but thanks to our teachers, who provided learning resources of the utmost quality, and the support showed by all girls, we were able to reach the end of this period with poise and grace. Girls, we were excited to see what 2020 would bring. We could never have

For the past six years we have been fortunate to be a part of a community that has consistently supported and encouraged us to learn and live with curiosity, confidence, and integrity. The responsibility that comes with being a Grammar girl is one that requires us to be thoughtful, self-aware, and global citizens. Our time at BGGS has guided us as individuals, shaped our morals, and imbued us with courage. This courage has enabled us to leave BGGS feeling proud, empowered, and ready to take on the world. So, as we approach the end of a major milestone in our lives, we thank the girls who helped us make this year one we will never forget. To every Grammar girl, thank you for your ongoing support, enthusiasm and ardour. Your willingness to contribute to the School’s incredible culture truly motivated us to give you our all as your Head Girls. To our Student Council, we thank you for your unwavering passion, consistent creativity, and commitment to creating palpable change within the School. You were the best support system we could have asked for and we deeply appreciate your tireless efforts throughout the year. We wish all BGGS girls every success and hope that this year’s School motto will stay with you: 2020—Me and You, Be the Glue that Binds the Blue. HEAD GIRLS

Through the School’s service work this year we were able to make a difference on a range of fronts. A number of initiatives—Notes of Hope, Grammar Goes Green, introducing biodegradable cutlery at the tuckshop and the Gift of Music Program—allowed us to improve the School’s sustainability and give back to the community. There were so many momentous occasions and demonstrations of teamwork this year, but having the largest number of Year 12 supporters on record cheering at QGSSSA Swimming and winning Head of the River for the first time were two clear highlights. Despite co-curricular activities taking on modified formats during remote learning, as a Student Council, we refused to let our focus on teamwork dwindle. Initiatives such as the Passion Series and Creative Manifestations allowed us to appreciate the hidden talents of students, learn new skills, and enjoy amazing performances. The new ATAR system also provided an opportunity for the BGGS team to develop together. Becoming comfortable with a new system has been challenging but our senior students have worked as a team to embrace such change with positivity, perseverance and creativity.

04 | BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL 2020