It is a joy to see our Castlecrag community growing as Class 3 continue their Class Teacher journey at our Castlecrag campus this year. What a lovely way to ease into their first few days of Class 3 with a session of mindful gardening. Our campus gardens got a good drink, sunshine and a few new seedlings and mulch to tend to. The holiday weeds are now gone thanks to lots of little hands working together.

Congratulations Glenaeon Class of 2025!

It is with deep pride and gratitude that we acknowledge the achievements of our graduating Class of 2025.
The journey of these Year 12 students reflects the essence of a Glenaeon education, one that nurtures the
whole human being. Throughout their years of learning, this cohort has engaged thoughtfully with questions
of meaning and purpose, while meeting the challenges of the HSC with commitment, perseverance, and
integrity.

The breadth of subjects undertaken speaks to the diverse interests, capacities, and gifts within the Class of
2025. Their achievements across academic, creative, and practical disciplines are a testament to a holistic
education that seeks not only knowledge, but wisdom; not only achievement, but courage; not only success,
but heart. As a non-selective Steiner school, we are proud to support every student to complete their
schooling with an HSC credential, grounded in self and ready to act in the world.

These accomplishments have been made possible through a strong and caring community. I extend my
sincere thanks to our dedicated teachers and staff for their guidance and commitment, and to our parents
and carers for the trust and encouragement they have offered along the way. Together, we have supported
these young people to grow into thoughtful, capable, and compassionate graduates.

To the Class of 2025, we offer our heartfelt congratulations. May you step forward with freedom of spirit,
confidence in your abilities, and a deep care for the world you will help to shape.

Diana Drummond
Head of School

Glenaeon Class of 2025 HSC Results

98.40 Top ATAR Jessica Coren

Top Achievers In Course Jessica Coren - 2nd in State in Ancient History

80.63 Median ATAR

Top 25% of schools in NSW* (as published in The Sydney Morning Herald 18/12/2025)

41% of students on the Merit List

50% of students studied extension courses

85% of students achieved in the top two bands (B6/B5 or E4/E3) in one or more courses

Distinguished Achievers - students achieved highest band possible for one or more HSC courses:

Sappho Appel - Mathematics Standard 2

Jessica Coren - Ancient History, English Advanced, Mathematics Advanced (2024^), Physics, Visual Arts

Iluka Ehemann - Visual Arts

Alexander Filipoppoulos - Mathematics Standard 2

Charlotte Mann - Ancient History

Joey O’Sullivan - Visual Arts

Simara Razzaghipour – Biology, English Advanced, English Extension 1, Mathematics Advanced

Liam Ryan - Mathematics Extension 2, Mathematics Extension 1 (2024^), Mathematics Advanced (2024^)

Samuel Street - English Advanced, Mathematics Extension 1 (2024^), Mathematics Advanced (2024^)

Beau Thompson - Ancient History, French Continuers

HSC Showcases

SHAPE Jasmine Brien nominated

YOUNG WRITERS Rafaela Isaacs nominated

ENCORE Luka Stevanovic nominated

Smart Expressions

Cezar Bennett

Iluka Ehemann

Ella Lester

Joey O’Sullivan

* Based on students who are eligible for ATAR and have consented to disclose their ATARs to the school

# As published in The Sydney Morning Herald 18/12/2025

^ Completed the course in 2024 as an accelerated student

Gardening teacher extraordinaire Sandra Frain is finishing this term after teaching for eight years at Glenaeon. This week was filled with gatherings in all her classes to say goodbye and thank her for her invaluable, inspiring, and incredible contributions to our children, campuses, and gardens. Sandra has gradually reduced her teaching this year, first in Playgroup, then Gardening K–2 at Castlecrag. She is now finishing her Primary 3–6 Gardening classes and Year 10 Biodynamic Minor-Elective. Students, parents, and colleagues have relished her creativity, passion, dedication, and joyful presence in the garden, Playgroup, Parent Education, sourdough bread baking, the friendly chicken flock, and compost making!

Class 5 had a tea party and gifted her a hand-made felted tea cosy with embroidered leaves, flowers, and bugs from the children and families, along with a teapot. Class 4 read her a beautiful poem (read below), and Year 10 brought a banquet of homemade treats to share in honour of Sandra and her social alchemy in their biodynamic agricultural studies.

For Class 3, it was business as usual, cleaning out the duck and chicken coop, watering plants (and each other on a hot day!), before gathering to share memories and a ceremonious slice of cake at Sandra's last official garden class at Middle Cove. Last weekend Sandra also hosted a 'Volunteers Thank you Picnic' and shared with some wonderful cakes made by talented parent, Carolina.

Sandra will continue working within the Steiner community as a Tutor at Sydney Rudolf Steiner College and as a consultant for schools and community groups in her many areas of expertise, as well as doing some casual teaching at Glenaeon. You can join the biodynamic conversation and keep up to date with her workshops through her Biodynamic Gardening Group on Facebook. Thank you, Sandra, from the bottom of our (compost and worm-filled) hearts!

A Farewell for Sandra

In a garden where wonders bloomed each day,
You guided our hearts along the way.
With kindness and wisdom, you helped us grow,
Nurturing passions we didn’t yet know.

Your laughter, like sunlight, brightened our fears,
You listened with patience, wiping our tears.
Each lesson a treasure, each smile a seed,
You taught us of courage, of kindness, and need.

As you gather your leaves and prepare to depart,
Know you’ll forever reside in our heart.
Though distance may stretch like the branches of trees,
The love you have given will echo in breeze.

So, thank you, dear Sandra, for all that you've done,
For teaching us how to shine, like the sun.
As you journey ahead, with new paths to explore,
We'll carry your lessons and cherish them more.

- From Jamie Loftus and Class 4

Year 7 ended their year with a day full of salt air, teamwork and true seafaring spirit as they set off on a Tall Ships excursion from Darling Harbour. Once aboard, students learned the rhythms of ship life, hoisting the sails, handling ropes, taking on different roles, and working together to move as one crew. The sails were raised as they glided past Lady Macquarie’s Chair, before making their way across the harbour to anchor near Taronga Zoo. Students enjoyed a refreshing swim, laughter echoing across the water on a warm Sydney afternoon. Throughout the day, the experience beautifully echoed their Main Lessons in Mechanics and the Voyages of Discovery. This excursion offered a living, breathing sense of how forces, pulleys, exploration and human ingenuity all come together at sea. Huge thanks to Emma, Elena, Rhoda, and Blaise (our ever-watchful lifeguard) for guiding and supporting the students, it was a joyful and memorable way for Year 7 to close a huge year.

Our wonderful Kindergarten teacher Sarah David retired after 13 years at Glenaeon. Sarah has taught hundreds of Glenaeon children and their families and cared so lovingly for the gardens, chickens and Parent Library. The whole campus gathered in a huge circle together in the Kindergarten garden with parents, Diana Drummond and Dani Finch. Long time friend and colleague Catherine Pilko spoke of Sarah's beautiful nature, her nurturing care, diligence and skill as an educator, as the kookaburra called from the branches of 'Grandfather Gum'. Parents gifted her a beautiful memory box and a stunning, heartfelt hand-made felted artwork made by Charlotte Fayle of her sitting on the Kindergarten bench watching children play under the same gum tree. Colleagues and the school gifted her a beautiful bag made by talented parent Lisa during Parent Craft and some treasures from our Grassroots Eco Store. The children sang songs from the heart and finished with the 'end-of-day' Kindergarten verse, followed by a picnic for all in the afternoon. It was a truly special celebration. Thank you, Sarah.

Last Friday, Year 10 participated in service to the homeless through participation with Kids Giving Back charity! As part of a service program delivered at school by Donna and Lillian, students in Year 10 have been hearing from other students as well as external individuals to enlighten them about the importance of service. Year 11, Michaela C. talked about her involvement with climate charities. Year 9, Matai J. presented on his work and involvement with his family's village in Papua New Guinea and empowering the women there to create and sell bags using recycled fishing nets. Sophie D. spoke about her story and involvement with MS Plus. Through discussion, debate and reflection, students are beginning to gain an appreciation for this very important work. All of this is leading towards a program the students will be developing to mentor incoming Year 7, 2026. They will work with these younger students over five sessions, two in Term 1 and then once each term following.

Kindergarten practised their beautiful Advent Festival in their morning circles and in the school hall and then on the last day of school they finished the year with a beautiful summer Advent celebration in a little reserve near the school with parents. Hanging stars in the trees and amongst nature, they shared their play before enjoying a wonderful picnic together with their families.What a wondrous celebration! The children shone with heartfelt love and joy which they shared with all.

Today we gathered as a full Middle Cove community for our final assembly of the year, with Class 3 to Year 12 filling the Hall with joyful anticipation for the holidays ahead. The Events captains opened our time together with a beautiful Acknowledgement of Country. Then a musical performance - For the Beauty of the Earth, led by Ian Munns, set a calm and festive tone.

Our Head of School, Diana Drummond addressed the students and Year 11's Ciara H. made some announcements from the Student Representative Council. She signed off with a profound speech thanking the teachers who support them in their daily school life. A sincere and enthusiastic round of applause began from the students for their teachers and this simple moment carried all the appreciation of a full and meaningful year. The assembly continued with Coach and Kim awarding the mighty Gleno Cup trophy to this year's winning team. Congratulations Year 12, taking out the Cup for the very first time!

We then shared some important staff acknowledgments with students presenting their heartfelt farewell to much-loved departing teachers. Archie extended gratitude to Eurythmy Teacher, Emily Collett, Ria And Saoirse to Science Teacher and Year 11 Guardian, Dr Hernan Carol Garis and Sofia and Juliette to Head of History, Terry Hawes who are all embarking on new and exciting chapters.

We closed with a sincere and enthusiastic round of applause from students to their teachers, a simple moment that carried all the appreciation of a full and meaningful year. And with that, we gently draw the curtain on another school year.

Last week, our school community gathered at Pitt Street Uniting Church in Sydney for Glenaeon's Annual Carol Service. Thank you to everyone who made it an evening to remember! A festive and reflective time had by all. Enjoy some moments captured below by Melony Browell.

We are thrilled to announce the publication of the 18th edition of our annual magazine, Aeon. Click here to read.

A copy of the magazine made its way home to families yesterday, and we hope you’ve felt the joy of gently browsing through its pages as it reflects the many moments that shaped our year together. Thank you to all our contributors for your reflections and creativity and to our cover student, Cezar marking the very first Art cover.

Class 6 marked the end of their primary school journey with a joyful celebration that captured both their spirit and their togetherness. The afternoon began at Willoughby Park, where bubble soccer brought plenty of laughter and playfulness we love to see at this age. As the sun softened, everyone gathered on the Middle Cove Deck for a shared dinner, a simple, beautiful meal made richer by the warmth of community. Students, families and teachers spent the evening in conversation, connection and quiet moments of reflection on the year that has been. It was a heartfelt way to honour Class 6 as they prepare to step into the next chapter, wrapped in friendship, gratitude and the support of their Glenaeon community.

Class 4 performed their play on the Year 9 balcony last Friday to an adoring crowd. Class Teacher Jamie Loftus wrote the play which explored themes of storytelling and narrative. This was a beautiful extension of their History of Writing Main Lesson. Well done Class 4!

The Shepherd’s Play is one of the Oberfuer plays which has been performed almost every year at Glenaeon since the 1950s. Teachers gifted the play to our students during school time, and on Tuesday evening it was our community’s turn.
This year, our teachers created a spectacular adaptation that wonderfully celebrated the theatrical, musical and Eurythmy talents of our colleagues. Our thanks to all who performed with such dedication and reverence.

Our deepest gratitude to all the staff who worked together to make the Shepherd’s Play such a joyous community event. In addition to all the onstage performers and vocalists there were a lot of staff working behind the scenes to make it run so smoothly. Thanks to this year’s director Elena Rowan with support from Katherine Arconati and to Michelle Cabena for her help in setting up the hall.

Even in the whirl of this busy season, our staff poured heart and imagination into creating a truly beautiful celebration for our community. The play shone with creativity, storytelling and the spirit of giving, a gentle reminder of why this cherished Glenaeon tradition continues to thrive year after year. We are deeply grateful to everyone from the wider Glenaeon and Steiner community who joined us and shared in the magic.

Congratulations Year 12 for taking out the Gleno Cup! Thank you to our students who showed beautiful teamwork and for cheering on their classmates. Some photos below of the great event held today on the Middle Cove ovals! 

Monday saw Year 9 students embark on their final challenge for The Cove program in 2025. In groups, they navigated a five hour Amazing Race style adventure which took them across a massive chunk of the city, chasing clues and finding landmarks. They battled public transport, ran, walked and skipped through the day telling jokes, striking up meaningful conversations with passers by, interviewing public and running bootcamps, making emergency services staff laugh amongst a host of other challenges. All the while discovering in the process, more about themselves and their teammates. Well done, Year 9!

The Great Big Handshake tradition returned to Middle Cove in 2025 with all the joy, chaos and heart we adore. This year, every student from Class 3 to Year 12, along with teachers and staff, formed a winding line stretching from the Hall right up to the Alice Crowther Admin building. One by one, they greeted each other with a handshake, smile, or an enthusiastic fist bump. Among the handshakes were spontaneous rounds of rock–paper–scissors, lots of giggles, and those sweet moments where older students looked out for younger ones. The sense of camaraderie across year groups was unmistakable. It was inclusive, warm, and full of that end-of-year sparkle. What a beautiful way to wrap up the school year and head into the festive summer holidays.

In November, some of our wonderful Glenaeon teachers sported some truly magnificent moustaches, all in the name of supporting men’s mental health. With good humour, a touch of friendly competition, and more than a few “Is that actually staying?” comments from students, the team raised over $1,700 for a cause that sits close to many hearts. Beyond the laughs, this was a gentle reminder of the importance of connection, wellbeing and looking out for one another. These values sit beautifully within our school community. A huge thank you to our mo-growing champions and to everyone who donated. Your support helped spark conversations that matter and made a meaningful contribution to the Movember initiatives.

As the school year draws to a close and we reflect on the year and the people who made it special. In December, our school community has been quietly blooming with kindness thanks to the beautiful Compliment-Trees now standing at all three campuses.

Staff have been invited to write a heartfelt note of appreciation on a hand-painted paper bauble and hang it on the tree. A small gesture that’s already filling each space with colour and warmth. From little acknowledgements of everyday moments to big celebrations of the people who keep our school humming, the branches have grown full with gratitude.

These trees are a gentle reminder of how powerful it is to pause, notice one another, and speak kindness out loud. In the rush of end-of-year rhythms, it’s been incredibly grounding to watch our staff uplift each other, one bauble at a time. Here’s to a forest of compliments and to the caring hearts behind every single one.

A heartfelt thank you to Anthony Fiore, whose artistry, craftsmanship and vision shaped the Middle Cove tree. He hand-forged, painted, and brought it to life with such skill and imagination. And to Donna Miller and Alisan Smotlak, who created the delicate watercoloured bauble Gratitude tags, each one is a tiny work of art. Thank you Melony Browell for creating the tree at Castlecrag and Reny Chandy and Peggy Day for bringing this initiative to life at the Preschool for parents to get involved too.

Class 3 has been busy channeling their inner makers this term. The students have been learning to crochet, beginning with carving their very own crochet hooks from sticks. This hands-on project had everyone feeling very proud of their work and creations.

With their new tools, they’ve been working together to weave a beautiful round rug for their classroom. It’s been a wonderful mix of patience, creativity and teamwork, and the students have loved seeing their project grow stitch by stitch.

We are thrilled to celebrate our Gold Duke of Edinburgh International Award recipients, Samuel Street and Katiya Petkovic, who were honoured at Government House on a perfect spring day.

Sam and Katiya began their Duke of Edinburgh journey in Year 9 with the Bronze Award, progressed to Silver in Year 10, and commenced their Gold Award in Year 11. Throughout this internationally recognised youth program, they have embraced opportunities designed to help participants discover their strengths, broaden their skills, and grow into capable, confident young adults.

Through their sustained commitment to service, physical recreation, and skill development, both students have strengthened their resilience, time-management, responsibility, and organisational capacities. Their adventurous journeys challenged them to lead their peers, work collaboratively, and recognise the importance of teamwork and community.

At the Gold level, participants must also undertake a five-day residential project, living away from home and immersing themselves in a new environment. Katiya followed her passion for horses by assisting at Glenworth Valley, deepening her knowledge and hands-on experience. Sam engaged in ecological and environmental work with other Duke of Edinburgh participants, contributing to conservation efforts and learning more about the actions we can take to reduce waste, pollution, and environmental impact.

We congratulate Sam and Katiya on this outstanding achievement and commend them for the dedication, initiative, and spirit of service that their Gold Awards represent.

All visitors to the Middle Cove Biodynamic Garden will see 'the corn growing as high as an elephants eye as it reaches as high as the sky’, and green grapes dripping off the hammock pergola!
Thank you to all Glenaeon garden students for making soil, watering the garden beds, planting seedlings, pruning bushes and trees, weeding to bring air to our vegetables and flowers, fertilising soil with our home-made nourishments from our animals that include worms, chickens and ducks.
We are grateful to the native animals like the kookaburras who gather close by while we dig in the soil. They swoop down for grubs and worms, and laugh at our conversations. The fish, frogs and dragonflies also join us down by the pond where the students relax in their midst.

Making a doll is a challenging project, both from a technical viewpoint and a personal one. Creating the image of the human being in doll form brings the maker into a new perspective on self. Our students engage with the challenge of doll making in their handwork lessons during Class 6. As the students become increasingly aware of facing the transition into high school, they are putting the finishing touches on their handwork dolls. Even though every student began with the same materials and followed the same sequence of steps to make the doll, each doll turns out as an individual, as unique as its maker. The variety and ingenuity which students bring to their dolls never ceases to amaze. Photos below are of the dolls in progress, ready for students to add their finishing touches!

Class 1 mathematics is a journey that begins with the wonder of the numbers, whose qualities and quantities are explored in myriad ways. Over the year, the children move from counting and working intuitively with number relationships to the introduction of the four processes. Aligning with the young child’s inner need for imagery and story, these four processes are presented through an imaginative world where they engage in various antics that teach the children what adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing are. This year, Katherine Arconati took that story and wove it into her class play, The Land of Quantity, complete with original music, verses and comedic elements. The children’s learning became visible and their enthusiasm for mathematics was palpable in the delivery of a delightful performance.

We are delighted to share that Year 12 student, Luka S. has had his HSC Music composition nominated for ENCORE, the annual showcase of exceptional HSC Music works from across NSW.

ENCORE highlights outstanding student achievement in performance, composition and musicology, and will be held at the Sydney Opera House on 2 March 2026.

A nomination is a significant recognition of a student’s creativity, dedication and artistic growth, and we warmly congratulate Luka on this achievement. Final selections for the showcase will be announced later in November.

Well done, Luka! 

Our Year 8 students participated in three brilliantly spirited performances of Shakespearean plays, two of which took place outdoors which was a brave choice that paid off beautifully. The Comedy of Errors brought the amphitheatre to life, with its tale of two sets of long-lost twins whose mixed-up identities created a joyful whirlwind of confusion. Over on the round oval, King Henry V marched into battle, telling the story of the young English king who leads his people to an against-the-odds victory at Agincourt.

During the parent performance, a sudden burst of rain swept across King Henry, but true to theatre tradition, the cast carried on without missing a beat. The weather soon settled, and the rest of the plays continued under clearer skies.

In the Sylvia Brose Hall, the students also presented a simplified version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, where a group of amateur actors rehearse a play in an enchanted forest, only to have mischievous fairies stir up magical chaos before restoring harmony. We are incredibly proud of the dedication, courage and teamwork shown by every student involved. Their hard work shone through in each performance, rain and all.

Class 5 recently got to participate in the Willoughby City Council annual Wildlife Story Book which involves hundreds of year 5 students across all school within Willoughby Council learning, writing and drawing about our local wildlife. On Thursday 13 November, Willoughby City Council hosted the book launch that features work from Frida C., Florence H., Steven L., Liam O., Charlie V.l, Byron H. and Aeden G. where they were each presented with a copy of the book and a certificate from Willoughby City Council Mayor Tanya Taylor and councilors. The book is now available at all Willoughby City Council library's and can be viewed online here. There are a couple photos of the very proud authors and Illustrators and their teacher Prue at the Book Launch. Well done all!

On Tuesday, Castlecrag turned into a small farm with many types of lambs, sheep, and a wonderful alpaca named Trevor.

Visiting as part of the children's Handcraft lesson, Classes 1 and 2 learned all about wool! They heard about the fibers and structure of wool, lanolin, and the cycle of growing and harvesting wool for yarn. The children also learnt about life on a farm as they fed and brushed the animals, and enjoyed feeling Trevor the alpaca's deep fur. Thank you to Rose for writing such a wonderful account of the day (see photos below).

In class, the children are sanding their own knitting needles and washing the raw fleece. This fleece is carded and can then be spun on a hand spindle into wool.

It was a beautiful day for all the children!

Last week, Class 2 performed their beautiful play, Brigid of Iona, inspired by the life and stories of Saint Brigid, whose kindness and courage continue to inspire hearts today.

The children worked with great enthusiasm to learn their lines, songs, and movements, and it was wonderful to see each child shine in their designated roles. From the rhythm of daily Main Lesson rehearsals to the sparkle of performance day, the play was a true celebration of teamwork, effort, creativity, and growing confidence.

The story of Brigid of Iona reminded us all of the power of resilience, generosity and community - values that the children brought to life so joyfully on stage. Thank you to our families for their support and encouragement, and to the children for the warmth, joy and care they brought to every performance.

Year 9 attended the Shoalhaven Outdoor Art Program over the last couple of weeks and came away gleaming and inspired by both the environment of the river and with their creative output at the Bundanon Education Centre!

The journey was relaxing and enjoyable as they worked in tandem to guide their crafts over rapids and still waters with little current. The energy of the river evoked different emotions and feelings at various times throughout the trip. Sleeping under tarps or the starry skies was a treat and reward for the work undertaken during the day. Some of the meals created on the simple trangia were inspiring and certainly delicious, with papadums, curries, steak, and other dishes.

Being immersed in the landscape of the Shoalhaven River allowed students to respond to their material practice based on an intimate relationship with their surroundings. It was wonderful to see the diverse expressions of the river and land the students portrayed.

Bundanon Education Centre was gifted to the Australian people by Arthur Boyd and the school has been visiting and participating in workshops as part of our Year 9 program for almost 15 years. That every student, not just art students, has this experience is unique to Glenaeon. The staff and artists at the centre consistently comment on the confidence, skill, technical level and overall participation of our students as outstanding!

We are delighted to share that our HSC English Extension 2 student, Rafi, has been nominated for possible inclusion in Young Writers.

This respected showcase celebrates exemplary major works from English Extension 2 students across NSW, recognising creativity, depth of thought, and dedication to the craft of writing. To be nominated is a significant honour and a testament to Rafi’s commitment and achievement.

Warm congratulations, Rafi, we are deeply proud of your effort, your perseverance, and the artistry you bring to your work.

Our Year 10 students have been enjoying the fantastic Spring weather, learning the ropes around sailing at Balmoral Sailing Club as a part of their Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) classes.

Sailing small Hobie Cats, sea kayaking and stand up paddleboarding, the students have been exploring the area around Middle Harbour and enjoying the beautiful waters of the Harbour.

Last night, our Class of 2025 gathered with their families at Curzon Hall in North Ryde for a beautiful celebration marking the close of 13 years of schooling, the completion of their HSC examinations, and the beginning of a new chapter beyond school life. This occasion was also an opportunity to honour the partnership and support of parents and carers throughout this journey.

The day began with a Graduation Assembly that was both deeply moving and joyfully light-hearted. Each of our thirty-four graduates was acknowledged for the unique individuality that has shaped their path and prepared them for this next step in life. Yet, what stood out most was the strength of their collective spirit—a quality that has enriched our community and will remain their enduring legacy at Glenaeon.

As we farewell the Class of 2025 and send them forth into the world, we do so knowing they carry and embody the attributes found so often in our graduates: freedom of spirit, the capacity for purposeful action, a sense of inner grounding, and a deep care for the world around them. In the words of Rudolf Steiner: “Our highest endeavour must be to develop free human beings who are able of themselves to impart purpose and direction to their lives.” Farewell, Year 12 - you will always be part of the Glenaeon story and you will forever be welcomed back to connect, to find meaning and simply to belong.

We can’t wait to see you all at the Fair tomorrow – what a day it will be!

Diana Drummond
Head of School

 Photo credit: Images 1 & 2 by nbq.photography

As Term 4 draws to a close, amidst the flurry of deadlines and activity, we are gifted a moment to pause and reflect. The end of the school year invites us to look back on the journey of growth: of our children, our young people, and our community, over these past twelve months.

In these final weeks, our school has been alive with Class Plays, musical performances, Welcome Meetings for 2026, and many other celebrations that speak to the richness of Steiner education. Each event is a reminder of the deep, holistic learning experience that unfolds here, not only for the students but for all of us as teachers, staff, and families. Whether we are sharing stories of completed work, witnessing the creativity and confidence of a performance, or simply pausing to appreciate the beauty of this community, we are reminded how fortunate we are to walk this path together.

As one Year 8 parent put it this week:

"I’m still enjoying the warmth, fun and celebration of all the performances last night at Year 8’s Shakespeare Festival.  I am so heartened and moved by how events such as these give all the children the opportunity to bring their creativity, fun, quirkiness and gifts to each other, to their teachers and to their families.  It is certainly a highlight of the year and added up to what I’ve witnessed throughout the course of these children’s lives at Glenaeon. It is always a huge celebration of development, unfolding and one can marvel at who these you people are becoming as a result of their educational experience at Glenaeon."

Creating a Vibrant School Culture

Thank you to those who were able to join last week’s Parent Education evening, Supporting Students to Flourish: Strengthening Student Culture Together. At the session, we shared how Glenaeon staff and students are working together to enrich the school experience for every child. We outlined our progress and next steps in shaping expectations and approaches to student behaviour, ensuring they reflect our values and foster a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment. This important work includes plans for the development of school-wide principles of practice, with clear approaches tailored for both Primary and High School.  Even at this busy time of year, the conversations we shared and the feedback we received were thoughtful and constructive. For families who were not able to attend, we would like to offer a brief summary of the work underway and the direction we are taking together. Click here to read more. The slides from the session are available here.

Diana Drummond
Head of School

Thursday and Friday lunchtimes have been buzzing with energy this term, as more than 60 students took to the courts for the Lunchtime Legends Fast Five Netball Competition.

Across 28 thrilling matches played in the closing weeks of Term 3 and the opening of Term 4, students showcased impressive teamwork, sharp skills, and plenty of school spirit — making for a fast-paced and highly competitive series.

Two Year 8 teams, Cookage and The Vipers, stormed through the rounds, taking on teams from all year levels with outstanding success. The competition culminated in an exciting Grand Final yesterday, where Cookage emerged victorious, defeating The Vipers 8–2 in a closely-fought contest.

A huge well done to all of our players for their enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and skill throughout the tournament - your effort has been legendary!

After the excitement of Glenaeon’s Languages Week cake competition, our Year 7 and 8 Spanish, German, and Japanese students wrapped up the week with a colourful crafternoon tea last Friday.

Students were transported to Spain, Germany, and Japan through music, traditional snacks and creative craft activities during their final language lessons of the week.

In Spanish, students listened to la música mexicana while creating vibrant Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) decorations. Celebrated every 1-2 November, this Mexican tradition honours loved ones who have passed away — a joyful reunion filled with remembrance, storytelling, and colour.

In German, students crafted traditional paper Christmas ornaments and enjoyed delicious Weinachtskekse (German cookies).

And in Japanese, our students enjoyed tasting traditional foods such as Inari (tofu pocket sushi) and Sweet Mochi, while using Japanese expressions related to food and dining etiquette. Afterwards, they created transforming origami, a particularly challenging style that changes form as it’s folded. Despite the difficulty, students rose to the challenge and produced some truly beautiful pieces!

Class 4 marks the beginning of overnight outdoor education programs at Glenaeon.

Complementing the Local Geography Main Lesson, the children completed walks in the local area and slept overnight on the school oval!

Thank you to Scottie, KG, and Jamie for a wonderful adventure.

Please enjoy these highlights from the children’s reports:

On the bush walk we saw two turtles, the first one was on the first day. It was a browny colour. The water was also a bit brown. There were cliffs in the background and when we were looking at the turtle, a cormorant dived in and came out with a blacky-brown catfish that was squirming around. The next time we saw the turtle we were at a jetty and a nice green sea turtle swam past about four metres from shore. By Sai

I loved sleeping in the tent. It was fun to be so small inside a tent with Avah. I also loved the dinner. We had potato salad and beef patties and I also loved the mango strips we had on the second day. But what I really, really liked (with two million more reallys) was being in my PJ’s with my friends. By Almira

 I loved camp and these are the reasons why:

• I really liked all the walking and hiking
• I absolutely loved the food
• The flora and fauna were amazing
• The tents were very small

By Archie

Last Tuesday, Class 5 students, teachers and parents from Glenaeon, Kamaroi and the Blue Mountains Steiner Schools gathered at Glenaeon’s ‘Olympic grove’ to stage our very own Ancient Greek Olympics. 

Organised into the four city states of Athens, Sparta, Thebes and Corinth, the students competed with a friendly spirit in the marathon (400m), 100m sprint, long jump, discus, javelin and wrestling, and in spectacular chariot races. 

The Opening Ceremony featured dance, music and poetry before the god Zeus came down from the waterfall to declare the Games open. This was followed by a day of great achievement in the running, jumping and throwing events, of fine food prepared by our generous parent community, and, a day of friendship and fun. 

Medals were won and ribbons awarded for sportsmanship, grace, beauty and determination. A big thank you to Glenaeon’s Year 9 PE Extension students, who did a superb job running and judging the events throughout the day. 

Our Ancient Greek Olympics is a true Steiner community event in which parents, teachers and the students in our care create something wonderful and unique that will linger in our memories for a long time. 

Thank you to all who contributed to this fine day! 

In early November, our Rudolf Riders – Donna, Lee, Jamie, Fred, Genevieve, Keiko, Matt and KG – took to the road for the epic MS Gong ride, raising funds in support of people whose lives are affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

The team cycled an impressive 80km to Wollongong, completing the journey in just five and a bit hours before enjoying a well-earned lunch by the coast.

Their dedication and team spirit reflect Glenaeon’s strong commitment to serving others as they put their pedal power to good use in aid of MS Plus, a charity dedicated to raising public awareness of MS and improving the lives of people affected by the condition.

You can help make a difference too — please consider supporting our Rudolf Riders by making a donation today. 

This November, a group of Glenaeon’s teachers have teamed up to take part in Movember, the global movement raising funds and awareness for men’s health and mental wellbeing.

Starting the month with a clean shave, Nic, Ross, Hernan, Brendan, Adrian, Dave, Fred and Evan are now at the half-way point and proving that a little face furniture can go a long way towards making a difference.

They’re inviting our Glenaeon community to get behind them by supporting this important cause, with every dollar raised helping to fund life-changing projects for men’s health — from cancer research to mental wellbeing and suicide prevention.

Let's cheer the team on as they grow their 'mos' for Movember! Please consider donating today .

Spring has certainly arrived in the Kindergarten. The Jaboticaba (Brazilian grapetree) jewels beckon from within, the white mulberries dangle and delight, and the snow pea tower that treated our Kindy families at our Spring Festival has now made way for tomato plants and potatoes.

Even the beautiful green snake has come out of hiding and visited our playground. Although he is quite harmless, we admired him from a distance!

The children are also bursting and blooming at this time of year. Play is stretching ever upwards with creative construction, silkworms are sorted into babies, teenagers, parents, and our Kindy chooks are loved up with cuddles and cosy nests made by the children. Perhaps they are hoping that, much like in our recent story, mother hen will soon welcome some baby chickens.

As part of Class 4's Local Geography Main Lesson, the students recently visited Berry Island Reserve in Wollstonecraft and the Coal Loader in Waverton.

They participated in a guided bushwalk of the Reserve and explored the Coal Loader museum, learning about Indigenous culture, craft and bush tucker along the way.

Thank you to Jamie, Michelle, and Darren for such a brilliant excursion, and to Matilda for her beautiful reflection on the day below.

Yesterday we went to Berry Island with the whole of Class 4 and Jamie and Michelle. When we got there we met a man called Darren who was our tour guide and told us all about the Indigenous carvings. While we were walking we stopped every couple of metres so he could explain what we could eat in the bush. He told us that you could squish ferns together and put them on your insect bites. Darren also said that you could eat termites! Weird but true and most of us tried some! He told us you had to crunch on them so they didn’t run around in your stomach or mouth. 

Then we walked to the Coal Loader and went into the museum. It was small but had some amazing things in it. Darren showed us a hunting spear that his grandfather had made. Then we kept walking into the bush and came to a clearing where we sat down on some logs. Darren opened his bag and pulled out possum skins with signs carved into the skin, boomerangs, fire sticks, and a dingo skin that he handed around. Then we walked back and learned how to weave strong rope out of grasses and make water-proof bark boats. By Matilda

Last Wednesday, a group of eager Class 3–6 students gathered in the Junior Library at Middle Cove for the very first session of Glenaeon’s new co-curricular Chess Club.

Our budding grandmasters enjoyed an afternoon of strategy, friendly competition and fun as they began learning the fundamentals of this timeless game with their tutor, Max. Over the coming weeks, they will continue to explore new techniques, test their strategies, and connect with their fellow chess enthusiasts.

Chess Club takes place each Wednesday from 3:35–4:30pm throughout Term 4. It is run by the Sydney Academy of Chess – a team of experienced chess educators dedicated to teaching students the game while helping them strengthen critical thinking, focus, and problem-solving skills.

Places are still available for Term 4 — bookings can be made through Compass for any interested Class 3–6 students by 17 November – and the club will continue in 2026 (subject to interest).

For assistance with bookings, please contact Middle Cove Reception at reception@glenaeon.nsw.edu.au. For general enquiries about the Chess program, please email Adrian Carter at sport@glenaeon.nsw.edu.au

Class 2 have been working on two projects with Handwork teacher Elizabeth Ellean.

Some children are finishing their elaborate long-stitch pencil cases by decorating the second side with a drawing of their own inspiration - a pirate ship, a lighthouse, animals and more. Others have started knitting their 'Knitted Friends' - a doll they design for themselves and knit, complete with body, arms, legs, clothing colours and hair. We can't wait to see the class of new friends by the end of Term 4!

As part of their literacy journey, Class 1 has been immersed in Cuentos Latinoamericanos (Latin American Stories) with Class Teacher Katherine Arconati.

They have enjoyed wonderful fairy tales and legends that hail from Latin American countries including Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia and Venezuela. Within these stories, the children have learned about the Andes mountains, Amazon rainforest, South American animals and cultural traditions. In addition to writing increasingly complex sentences arising from the stories (in English), the class is also singing and counting in Spanish as part of the daily morning circle - a truly immersive experience full of joy and wonder. 

In addition to their daily Main Lesson work, Class 1 had two special guests. Carolina Ou Smolinski taught the children about the traditional use of mate and its cultural significance. They were enthralled to see all the special cups and straws from her collection and to hear the legend of its origin. The children also enjoyed alfajores, an Argentinian dessert.

Patricia Barreto-Ramirez told a cherished story about fireflies (Los Cocuyitos Alumbrados) from her home country of Venezuela. She also sang a song and played the Cuatro, a traditional guitar. The children were so delighted they all called out “Otra Vez!”, requesting an encore performance. They also enjoyed tequenos (cheese sticks) and majarete, a little sweet treat.

Many thanks to both parents for sharing their beautiful culture with the class and helping to bring this Main Lesson to life.

Welcome & Happy Bidding

The online auction is now live, inviting all to participate in a vibrant celebration of creativity and community.

This silent auction showcases beautiful handmade crafts, inspiring artworks, enriching services, and unique workshops crafted by our talented students, dedicated parents, and inspirational community artists. Embrace the spirit of imagination and transformation as you bid on opportunities to experience transformative workshops, engaging classes, and one-of-a-kind creative pieces that nurture the soul and soulfulness of our community. Exciting bids are also available for an exclusive photo shoot with Verve Photography and we have tickets to see the incredible Ed Sheeran in concert.

You can bid on items -  CLICK HERE or view them in person and discover a full treasure trove of auction items. Don’t miss the chance to view all the enchanting objects on display in the hall kitchen during the Fair and watch the community come alive. Your bid supports nourishing the creativity within us all!

Auction items can be viewed in person at the Glenaeon Family Fair, 121 Edinburgh Road, Castlecrag, on Saturday 15 November between 10am-4pm.

Bidding closes at 8pm, Sunday 16 November 2025

Classes 1 and 2 have begun this term with gardening teacher Kate Flood, exploring animal homes and working together to build new worm farms for the campus. Children brought in animal homes they had found to show each other, before looking on campus for other animal homes like nests, burrows and trees.

Working together, Kate helped them to explore the nature and habitat of earthworms and roundworms - with the bountiful number of worms that came in her compost! The children then created layered worm farms that they will feed and look after on campus.

The children then enjoyed making and eating Japanese rice balls together (after washing their hands) ... yum!