Happy Friday.
Grey skies and rain this week, but there was plenty to lift our dreary spirits: Chicago debuted on Thursday evening - and while we know Woodleigh always provides the musical goods, this production is JUST SO GOOD. Our friends from Ampilatwatja, Book Week celebrations and sausage sizzles helped too.

To Know: Chicago was choreographed by Woodleigh's very own Year 12 student, Ali.
To Read: Director of Careers at Woodleigh, Shannon Maher, discusses how Woodleigh empowers students to make informed and confident choices about their futures.
To See: seen THE FILM, a powerful documentary exploring the long-term impact of childhood trauma and the journey of healing to create stronger, healthier families.

Ready, Set, Chicago

One housewife, one glamorous star, one slick lawyer, one corrupt matron and one loyal husband - in one crime-filled city, jazz energy rife - the story writes itself.

Chicago launched at Senior Campus last night, and it was phenomenal. The entire cast and everyone backstage who make it happen - it was quite something. There is a handful of tickets available for Saturday's show, but get in quick.

1920s Woodleigh

Five star reviews

What an incredible show, had me hooked from the brilliant opening to the closing number! What an incredible talent we witnessed on stage, not to mention the incredible music from Sue Flettchr and co!

Seriously, the best show yet!

I just Ate My Friend.

No one ate anyone; in fact, Heidi McKinnon's books are about friendship - and friends don't eat friends. Heidi visited Minimbah for Book Week and the kids loved it. She was a graphic designer before becoming an author and illustrator of children's books, so her characters are striking and bold. The kids drew their own bold characters and chatted to Heidi about how she creates her stories and characters.

BFG roaming Penbank.

"Human beans is not really believing in giants, is they? Human beans is not thinking we exist.” BFG

One BFG, found! It was a delumptious time, no whizzpoppers (that we know of).
Book Week is a happy one, and Penbank goes all the way out (looking at you, Katherine). Kids, teachers and families, keep reading, keep imagining and may your frobscottle always fizz upwards.

To Read

Teaching Voice Informed and Confident Choices: Futures Beyond School

Confident, values-driven choices through academic rigour and real-world learning.

Ampiliwatwatja

Since 2008, Woodleigh School has had a partnership with the Ampilatwatja community in the Northern Territory. Through the Broadening Horizons Program, students are part of a cultural exchange, learning from the Alyawarr people and deepening their understanding of Indigenous history and contemporary life. Long-term relationships are forged, local art and education are supported and respectful engagement with First Nations communities is nurtured.

More from Activities Week

Let's hear it from the kids!

I learnt that I can push myself to try new things and improve my skills, even when it feels hard. A massive highlight was dancing at the Ministry of Dance and learning from professional instructors - Jesse Raffa from Dancing with the Stars(Latin dance) and Michael Fox from So You Think You Can Dance (breaking). It was incredible to be taught by such talented dancers and to feel inspired by their energy.
All of the instructors were so kind and supportive, especially when I felt lost.
— Asher, Year 7 - Dance Camp

The Adventure Leadership Camp is an experience you will never forget. From whitewater rafting to rock climbing and caving, there is never a dull moment. It brings out the best in people. The challenges and teamwork are never-ending.
By the end of camp, you will be able to rock climb, abseil, and become a pro at caving. As a team, you take charge of the meals for your campmates. The teachers are amazing and help you get through every challenge you face.
If you love adventure and are seeking to learn new experiences, ballot for Adventure Leadership.
— Ned, Year 8 - Adventure Leadership Camp

To See

seen THE FILM
Monday 15 September at 7pm
Further information and tickets here

ECC at Penbank

Another day at ECC, even the Principal calls in with his lab coat to teach some hair rasing science.

SIlent Gallery

Jeannie Baker is an author and illustrator of miniature collage construction artworks. Penbank's Year 3 and 4 students held a Silent Gallery on Friday morning, inspired by Jeannie's wordless picture book Mirror. As a response, students made their own visual stories, 'windows' into different cultures. Families came through the gallery in silence - or wordless - which made for quite a powerful exhibition.