1985 School Magazine

ZENITH REPORT

1985

Do you "quiver and quail" at the mention of English Orals or tutorials? Do your knees knock uncontrollably when making an announcement on assembly? Do you have that embarrassing trait of turning beetroot-red in front of a group of people out of pure fear? Well- your problems are over, because there is one place at B.G.G .S. where you can be saved! Zenith is a club that has been in existence for over five years, and as our name suggests, we believe in aiming for the heights (at least- that's what we attempt to do!). This year, the club received an influx of members from the junior school who have really helped to brighten up the club and produce new ideas. The club, through prepared speeches, impromptu work, conducting meetings and learning business procedure, aims to help girls, in a friendly fun atmosphere, gain more confidence in themselves and their ability to speak. Most of the older members, have seen, and been a part of great changes within many girls. I have been a member of the club for five years, and I have seen it grow as a group of people, aiming for self-improvement and achieving just that! Of course, the club has not been without its problems. But this year has been highly successful with the introduction of younger members to carry on the club, as a firmly established and worthwhile part of Grammar life. We enjoyed an interesting public-relations exercise in first semester on assembly. Everyone enjoyed Stephanie Russell's academy-award winning performance as myself five years ago. (I did not realise anyone could drop their notes that many times!) Many girls did not realise it was a skit, which re-inforced the point we were making, that some people really do lack self-confidence in speaking, and need the small, friendly environment Zenith offers. Once I came on and explained about Zenith, the joke was realised, but hopefully our message left some girls thinking! (And Stephanie really was wonderful!!!) We finished off our year with elections in early September, and a highly successful change-over dinner for the new board in fourth term. My special thanks must go to the board members for their continued support. They, and the other members of Zenith have been a wonderful group of people to be associated with, and Zenith has been very important to me as a large part of my life at Grammar. I know I am leaving the club in excellent hands, and I wish all members love and luck for further years. Be successfu I and always aim for the zenith and you will gait.l, as well as give much to Zenith . Thanks for everything!

ZEN DO KAI KARATE CLUB It has been an eventful and challenging year for Grammar's Karate Club. Early this year our afternoon trainings were increased to four days a week, instead of two. We train two days on the running track and the other two in Victoria Park. The number of members has fluctuated between 7 and 20 throughout the year. The number of girls in the club has declined, but we hope that more girls will give their support in the near future. This year we had two Senjo Gradings, which are a major event for all Zen Do Kai Clubs, with Kyoshi Bob Jones (the chief instructor and founder of Zen Do Kai) attending. All members of Grammar's club trained extremely hard for the gradings and this has paid off, as everyone progressed at least one belt. John Woolrych and Micheal Hueny must be congratulated for their high achievement in receiving their full Shodan (one grade above Black Belt). This year, we also did demonstrations at both Grammar School Days. We demonstrated various Karta routines self- defence techniques and sparring. Those watching sh~wed much interest, and we hope it will encourage new members to come along and give Zen Do Kai a go. It is a rewarding form of Martial Arts and much can be gained from becoming a member.

Ch rysu Ia Lytras President

We would like to thank our instructor, Sensai Elsa, for her support and encouragement throughout the year.

P.S. For all you incredibly out-dated people - we've been called Zenith for the last 2V2 years - not Toastmistress!!! 28

Jane Woolrych