Objects of Substance - Rangakarra Learning Trees

Map of Rangakarra marking the Year 7 Learning Tree Grove The Rangakarra Opening Ceremony saw the planting of learning trees, the Eucalyptus paniculate (ironbarks), onsite. Both Year 7 and 8 House Groups planted these saplings as living embodiments of the growth mindset concept. Each year since, Year 7 House Group Captains made their way to the beauty of Rangakarra to plant their eucalypts. The weather and the magic of the campus never disappointed. Little did Professor Carol Dweck know that this would be one of the outcomes of her fixed/growth mindset writing. This tradition continued until 2020-the year our first Year 7 class graduated as seniors. Our grove of saplings was tenderly nurtured until they could grow independently. This sounds so much like the learning journey. These small saplings have now grown into a thriving reminder of a special time in the School's history. They will continue to mature as the seasons come and g0-. Metaphor is powerful. The imagery of growth and hope in the future-much like the personal journey upon which each Grammar girl embarks-is obvious in the symbol of these trees. May this 'artefact' become an enduring monument that will grow strong and tall, representing the majesty and vitality of lives enriched by learning. Dr Bruce Addison Deputy Principal (Academic)