Grammar Gazette- Issue 2, 2022

Global Citizens

When BGGS alumna, Ms Cathy Milliken (1972), returned home from Berlin to visit family, she shared her lessons and learnings with us on an episode of Illumine—Grammar Women. A renowned oboist, composer, and music educator, Ms Milliken initially pursued a musical education locally at Queensland Symphony Orchestra, before travelling overseas to assume positions in some of the most highly regarded classical music orchestras in the world Her truly global perspective, and reflections on navigating challenging situations in foreign lands during vastly different times, are an inspiration. Today, amongst various musical projects and composition commissions, Ms Milliken advocates for greater recognition of women musicians and composers Closer to home, BGGS has also engaged local thought leaders including author and columnist, Ms Madonna King, and specialist clinical psychologist, Dr Judith Locke, to provide valuable and authentic information about parenting and the challenges that adolescent girls face in Australian society today These intimate sessions have been well-attended by families and demonstrate that BGGS parents have a deep interest in learning and understanding their daughters and helping them to find their place in our increasingly complex world BGGS has also continued to have a strong voice on the national stage by contributing to conversations affecting the education sector. The ‘teacher shortage’ issue was explored in an episode of Illumine , and the candid conversation between Ms Euler Welsh, Deputy Principal (Academic), Dr Bruce Addison, and Deputy Principal (Co curriculum), Ms Sophie Mynott, was picked up by the Australian Financial Review and featured in their weekend publication, AFR Weekend Their discussion covered what they believe is contributing to the decline in teaching graduates, reasons behind the resignation of current teachers, and the hurdles mid-career changers face when considering a switch to teaching They also examined the solutions being put forward by the government and policymakers as part of the National Action Plan, and ideas of their own for addressing the issues Girls Grammar will continue to seek the insights and perspectives of experts from around the globe and within our own communities —ensuring that the School maintains the mindset of a global educational institution: aware of our place in the wider world; actively involved in our communities; and working towards making our planet and society a more peaceful, sustainable, and just place for all. ■

— References www.oxfam.org.uk/education/who-we-are/what-is-global-citizenship/

top Ms Jacinda Euler Welsh in the studio with alumna, Ms Cathy Milliken (1972) above The AFR Weekend article that featured Ms Jacinda Euler Welsh, Dr Bruce Addison and Ms Sophie Mynott discussing the teacher shortage

Gazette

Brisbane Girls Grammar School

07

Issue 2, 2022