This Wednesday saw the opening night (and Australian premiere) of DREAMLAND , performed by our enthusiastic and talented Year 10 cohort. They performed to a sold out Sylvia Brose Hall filled with excited members of our community there to support our students and the dramatic and musical arts. Our Year 10 students shone on and off stage and a huge thank you to teachers, staff, parent volunteers and the whole community for your support, time and energy. Wishing everyone a big chookas for tonight and tomorrow's sold out performances.

Please enjoy some dress rehearsal snaps below!

“You can see from all this that what matters more than anything else in a teacher is the way we regard our holy calling. This is not without significance, for the most important things in teaching and in education are those that are imponderable. A teacher who enters their classroom with this conviction in their heart achieves something different from another.” - Rudolf Steiner, Balance in Teaching, Lecture I

This thought‑provoking reflection, shared by Collegiate Chair Katherine Arconati at a recent K-12 Teacher Meeting, invites us to pause and consider those qualities of education that cannot be measured or quantified, yet are deeply felt and enduring. It speaks powerfully to the inner life of the teacher and to the quiet, purposeful intention with which learning is shaped each day. Reading these words, I am filled with deep gratitude for our teachers, who continue to strive for growth, meaning and purpose in their work, and who hold with care the complex task of nurturing young people of strong character, resilience and heart.

As we enter the final week of term, Steiner’s reminder feels especially timely. At moments of transition and completion, we are afforded the opportunity to step back and recognise the immeasurable work that unfolds across our classrooms, outdoors and across different learning spaces - much of it unseen, yet profoundly significant.

With the term break so close, it might be easy to imagine that activity at Glenaeon is slowing. Nothing could be further from the truth. As I write, final touches of paint and polish are being applied to the set of Dreamland , our Year 10 Musical production. Tonight is opening night; the energy is palpable and we greatly look forward to sharing this vibrant production with you. Our Year 12 students are settling into the first nights of their final Outdoor Education experience, a journey that will culminate in 48 hours of solo time in the bush, an impressive and meaningful rite of passage.

At Castlecrag, our Kindergarten and Classes 1 and 2 students are completing their Main Lesson cycles following a magnificent Harvest Festival play for all Primary students, hosted by Class 6. This re‑enactment of the story of St Michael carried a powerful message of inner resolve, initiative and the triumph of light over darkness. Kindergarten students also celebrated Harvest with a shared, full‑day experience apple picking in Bilpin last weekend, a joyful and deeply connected experience of the season. Other classes will experience Harvest Festivals next week.

School concludes for the term holiday and Easter next Wednesday, our final day of lessons for the term. I wish all families a restful and rejuvenating break and look forward to welcoming you back for Term 2.

Diana Drummond
Head of School

'Let's leave the city and leave the town

For we are off to visit Cedric's farm...'

Last Sunday Kindergarten gathered together at Cedric's orchard in Bilpin near the Blue Mountains to celebrate Harvest Festival. What a joyous occasion! It was a beautiful day with a touch of Autumn in the air. Farmer Cedric was there as always, greeting everyone and explaining some important aspects of apple picking. We picked apples, sang and danced the songs of our Harvest Circle and then shared food together under the big oak tree. This week, we delighted in making delicious apple crumble in the Kindy classrooms with apples from Farmer Cedric's orchard.

The Class 1 to Class 6 Autumn Festival was held on Friday of last week and what a beautiful celebration it was!

A story of St Michael and the Dragon was confidently narrated by Class 6 students, and both year-level and community songs wove the dramatic tableaux seamlessly together. Class 5 students presented the fearful dragon in great style, with writhing, percussion and thunder adding to the dragon’s might, and they depicted the creature’s transformation beautifully as it adhered to Michael’s command and demurely followed the princess to lie at the villagers' feet.

The festival was celebrated just before the autumn equinox, and the St Michael story provided a wonderful image from which the children can draw inner strength during the months to come. As they enter that time of year when nights are longer than days, which can be seen as a metaphor and inwardly lived experience for the threat of the dominance of ‘evil' over ‘good', an image of strength and courage is set before them. Importantly, the dragon is not slain but is instead mastered, indicating our human need not to banish those parts of us that arise from time to time to hinder us (desire for power, shame, fear and the like), but rather to understand their origins with compassion and render their impact ineffectual through inner mastery.

Much gratitude must go to parents of children in Classes 1 and 2 who decorated the hall and prepared the delicious feast of bread and corn. Many thanks are also to be extended to our Class Teachers who readied the children so well, calling forth heartfelt singing and strong voices.

Our families at Playgroup love to finish their session by following their noses from the garden picnic to "The Bakery", our final ritual where our bread bun creations are revealed. You can see some herbs that were picked fresh from our Castlecrag garden to decorate the buns and some shapes inspired from the seasonal story told at the start of the day.

At the beginning of the morning, families are asked to bring something for our nature table which was still in summer theme last week. There is a special moment at the start as families are gathering, where children can place their found item such as a leaf, where we start to come inward and appreciate the small delicate things in the noisy world outside the gate.

I truly feel honoured to be the first experience some families receive of their introduction to our work here. I'm confronted with very new parents who may have a child with extra needs and dealing with the modern life of 2026. Playgroup is a safe space for families to be with other children and parents and carers to allow for the magic of the Playgroup rhythm to heal and nourish.

Thank you to all current and prospective families, students, teachers, staff and alumni for joining us this morning for our annual Middle Cove Open Day! What a magical morning it was. Please enjoy some special moments from today!

After winning the much-coveted 'Principal for a Day' prize at the Glenaeon Family Fair, our very own Class 4 student, George, stepped confidently into the role last week.

George began with 8am duty, greeting students with calm authority before visiting the Year 11s to hear about their Captain applications. He joined both the Primary and High School assemblies and addressed the cohorts with Ms Drummond.

Recess was happily spent with his Class 4 friends (a wise leadership choice), before checking in with Year 12 to see how exams were progressing. The day continued with visits to Class 8 Eurythmy, Year 9 Drama and Year 8 Art, a wonderful tour of learning across the school.

Throughout the day, George asked many thoughtful questions like, "is it fun being the Head of School?" and "do you ever get nervous when standing up in front of a crowd?". This led to many conversations about practicing skills to make you more confident. A full and joyful day of thoughtful leadership. Thanks George!

LESS THAN TWO WEEKS TO GO

Book your tickets here

The Year 10 musical Dreamland is well underway! Students have been rehearsing and the hall is abuzz with activity. On the stage the students are rehearsing routines, with piano and backing tracks. In the music rooms the choirs are sounding wonderful. In the hall, a myriad of dazzling costumes are being cut and created. In the handwork room, the sewing machines are working overtime with stunning creations for costumes and sets.... and in the design technology hub, larger sets, props and stages are underway. It's really exciting to be around and the energy is building. Thanks to our wonderful teachers and parents and the incredible students who are creating magic for our musical.

Dates
Four (4) evening performances at 6:30pm
Wednesday 25 March 2026 - Saturday 28 March 2026

Location
Sylvia Brose Hall - Glenaeon Rudolf Steiner School
5a Glenroy Avenue, Middle Cove NSW 2068

Tickets
Adult $39 | Concession/Child $26
Suitable for all ages

*Please enjoy some snaps of our students, teachers, volunteers as they dedicate their time and energy to rehearsals, music direction and prop design and making. We can't wait to see all your collective work shine very soon!

Today we welcomed almost 200 visitors to our Middle Cove campus for Open Day - always a wonderful opportunity to share with prospective (and some current!) families the unique educational approach that defines our school, and of course, to showcase our magnificent grounds.

Throughout the morning, visitors saw students immersed in purposeful, active learning: exploring multi‑disciplinary themes in Main Lesson, modelling geometric forms, observing scientific phenomena, discussing historical events, creating music, designing, blacksmithing - the list goes on. As I observed the richness of these experiences, a thought that has been returning to me often lately rose again with real clarity: these deep, hands‑on, tactile learning moments strengthen attention and memory in ways that screen‑based engagement simply cannot match. It becomes unmistakably clear: when screens step back, learning steps forward.

This was the focus of the message I shared with guests today, and I want to bring it to our school community as well, because it speaks directly to Glenaeon’s thoughtful stance on technology - one well worth celebrating.

Neuroscience increasingly affirms what Steiner education has long understood: children learn best when they do , not when they click . Our slow‑tech approach supports children emotionally, behaviourally, and academically. We know, too, that social media pressures are major contributors to anxiety and distraction among young people. By limiting digital exposure in the early years, we protect childhood, nurture real‑world friendship, and create space for imagination, creativity, and stillness. Students who are less tethered to algorithmic feeds are more grounded, more socially present, and more able to engage joyfully in school life.

Encouragingly, it seems Australia may be on the cusp of a profound shift in how we think about childhood, technology, and the true purpose of schooling. Concerns about attention, memory, sleep, cognition, emotional wellbeing, and social pressures are rising to the surface, prompting schools to respond to what is now impossible to ignore. At Glenaeon, we have long led the way. Our approach places us exceptionally well to support children and young people in becoming capable, centred, purposeful individuals ready to shape their own meaningful lives.

There is a beautiful irony in this moment: the capabilities young people must need in an AI‑rich future - creativity, imagination, ethical reasoning, collaboration, and compassionate thinking - are precisely the capacities Steiner education has been cultivating for over a century. At a time when many schools are scrambling to retro‑fit creativity into their programs, it has always been the backbone of ours.

Glenaeon is proudly a slow‑tech school—not a no‑tech school. The distinction is important.

Rather than removing technology altogether, we introduce it with intention, purpose, and at developmentally appropriate stages. In the primary and middle years, children learn through movement, story, art, rhythm, nature, and human connection. These experiences lay the neurological foundation for literacy, numeracy, focus, comprehension, creativity, and emotional intelligence. They are not luxuries; they are essentials.

When the time is right, particularly from middle High School years, technology is brought in with clarity and discipline. Students learn digital literacy, research skills, responsible online behaviour, and an emerging understanding of AI.

It was such a privilege to talk to visitors today. To hear so clearly that parents today are seeking schools that not only educate well, but also care wisely for childhood. A Glenaeon education does just that: relational, human‑centred, developmental, and aligned with the best of contemporary research.

Thank you for your trust and partnership and for choosing Glenaeon for your children. Together, we continue to offer young people an education that is calm, future‑focused, and profoundly human.

Enjoy this weekend!

Diana Drummond
Head of School

Earlier this month, six students from Year 9 and 10 Archie L, Gabe F, Maaikae P, Arthur A, Enzo MJ and Sam D made the trip out to the International Regatta Centre, Castlereagh NSW to compete in the Intermediate division at the NSW All Schools Triathlon.
Despite the challenging weather which saw them competing in wet and rainy conditions, they each showed great determination throughout the swim, bike, and run transitions competing with athleticism and an inspiring amount of grit and resilience. All athletes pushed themselves to perform at their best and never backed down from the tough conditions. Their teamwork and encouragement for one another were evident across the course, as was the display of excellent sportsmanship toward other competitors and officials. Congratulations to all involved for a fantastic effort and for representing our school so well.

It's been a big couple of weeks for Year 11 Art students. They enjoyed the annual excursion to Cockatoo Island under the tutorship of Michael Herron to practice their sketching skills inspired by their unique surrounding environment. They were also thrilled to attend an excursion to Art Express at the Art Gallery of NSW, the much-loved annual exhibition highlights outstanding artworks by Year 12 Visual Arts students from across New South Wales. Thank you to teachers Alisan and Donna for supporting the students in these excursion opportunities.

One of the foundational strengths of a Steiner education is the integral place of Handwork and artisan craft work in every child’s journey. From the early years’ finger knitting through to crochet, sewing, woodworking and metalworking in the older grades, students move in a thoughtful developmental progression that marries head, heart and hands. These practices cultivate spatial awareness, mathematical thinking, fine motor skills, patience, focus, and an appreciation for natural materials and beauty; skills and sensibilities that last well beyond school. The process matters as much as the product: children learn to persevere, correct, and take pride in making something useful and real.

With that spirit in mind, I share the news that after twenty-six years of dedicated service, our deeply-admired Handwork teacher Elizabeth Ellean has announced her intention to retire from her role at Glenaeon. Elizabeth’s connection to our school spans the full arc of community - student, parent, and teacher - and her contributions have shaped generations of children and families. Elizabeth will continue teaching this term, take Long Service Leave in Term 2, and then retire. Classes will be finding ways to acknowledge Elizabeth’s contribution over coming weeks leading up to the end of term and staff will have the opportunity to farewell Elizabeth after her long service leave period.

Meg Quinlisk has been appointed into the permanent role of Handwork Teacher following her work in the role of Handwork Assistant over the last couple of years as part of a succession plan in collaboration with Elizabeth. Congratulations Meg, we look forward to you starting in this role in Term 2.

A related aside is the news shared this week through the Glenaeon Parents Association (GPA) that the Parent Craft Group, expertly guided in recent years by Glenaeon parent Charlotte Fayle has a new energy this year, with the coordination of the group being shared by four Glenaeon parents, with Charlotte now acting in a mentoring capacity. Parent Craft stands as a living testament to the authentic connection our parents have to the school community. Parent Craft has evolved over many years and is currently vibrantly active. Week by week, volunteers offer time, patience and care, creating objects that speak of purpose and beauty. As Elizabeth Ellean reflected this week about Parent Craft, ‘working together to create with intention is a fully enriching experience not just for the doers but also for the receivers of such fine work.’ For more information about joining our Parent Craft, please see our GPA section below.

Enjoy the weekend!

Diana Drummond
Head of School

Our Preschool children and educators worked together to create care packs to support families attending Indi Kindi, an early years education program for children in remote Aboriginal communities. The hygiene packs and a special doll were shipped then allocated to the children in a small outreach community called Mungkarta, 80km south of Tennant Creek. Many families in this isolated area face challenges accessing shops and essential resources especially during wet seasons as the road floods. These packs provide essential items that help young children learn and develop healthy habits at home. We were thrilled to receive word that the packs had arrived safely and the young learners in Tennant Creek and Mungkarta had a fun time creating thank you cards to send back. So thoughtful! This relationship has involved a learning exchange through the special doll that travelled from Willoughby to the city, then to Central Australia to foster social connections, teach the children about different perspectives to support holistic development and curiosity about different ways of living in the world.

You can support Indi Kindi to give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children the best start in life by clicking the link here.

Glenaeon was delighted to attend a special event in Castlecrag last weekend, the unveiling of a new sculpture Marion’s Nature created by acclaimed artist Sandra Pitkin and now officially installed in Castlecrag. Created as a tribute to Marion Mahony Griffin, the work honours her architectural vision, her love of the Australian bush, and her vital role in shaping and nurturing the spirit of Castlecrag.

With her finely detailed, nature-inspired practice, Sandra has created a sculpture that beautifully echoes Marion’s own creative vision — a fitting and lasting tribute.
Glenaeon’s Choir, led by Head of Music Mr Ian Munns, sang two beautiful Australian songs: ‘How Can You Catch The Wind’ by Dan Walker and ‘Sailing Home’ by Paul Jarman. Thank you to teachers Raphaela Mazzone and Alleyne Moss for your support and singing at this event.

The sculpture sits a few metres down the road from Glenaeon’s Castlecrag campus in Edinburgh Road. Our school was founded in 1957 by Miss Sylvia Brose and Mr Eric Nicholls. Back in the 1920s Nicholls, himself an architect, worked with the Griffins for many years and all were members of the Anthroposophical Society.  The community connection lives on, and we are pleased to once again celebrate our shared common ancestry.

We wish to thank our Head of Music, our Choir students and their families for their performance as this event. We received this lovely note from Adrienne Kabos at the Walter Burley Griffin Society: “We thank Diana, Ian and team for their enthusiastic support in making the choir's participation possible. The school's involvement yesterday and, prior to that, Glenaeon Rudolf Steiner School's generous donation to the sculpture honouring and celebrating Marion Mahony Griffin, is greatly appreciated by the Griffin Society.”

Last week, Year 11 stepped into a scene of nostalgia, reminiscing on their early high school experiences. Over a cup of tea, they sat around a trangia, showing the new Year 7 students, the ins and outs of their first camp cooking experience. The initial nervous smiles, and timid introductions soon turned into uninterrupted chatter and laughter filling the basketball courts. Year 11 shared stories of their Outdoor Education program experiences. Some exciting, some slightly horrifying, but altogether, eased some anxieties on Year 7’s upcoming trip, providing them with an ambitious and excited mindset before they head on their journey. This initiative brought the Glenaeon community even closer, and we cannot wait to see where this friendship goes next. From Year 11 to Year 7, we wish you the best of luck on your first outdoor education program (starting next week!), it will be a memory you take with you for the rest of your high school journey.

Amelie M. (Y11)

Year 10 students have started off the year making the most of magnificent weather and conditions at Balmoral Sailing Club, learning the ins and outs of navigating Hobie cats through Middle Harbour. Beautiful sunny, breezy conditions have made for a great learning experience down on the water and the students have embraced it enthusiastically. The colour and fun in the photos more than tells the story.

Inspired by Steiner’s indications, we begin the year with courage at the heart of our striving. With clarity of purpose, courage in meeting the new, and a renewed sense of human spirit, our school community steps into 2026 with energy and intention. Across our campuses, the hum of meaningful activity signals that a new rhythm is taking shape; one that supports children and young people to learn, grow, and flourish.

The first weeks of term have been full of gentle adjustment as students and teachers establish the rhythms that will hold them through the year. These daily rhythms, so central to Steiner education, offer the security, predictability, and breathing space young people need to meet learning and life with presence and enthusiasm. It has been joyous to watch our campuses come alive with student and teacher activity. Classrooms and outdoor spaces are filled with purposeful engagement. There is a sense of abundance as both learning and nature, especially after a long break, burst forth with energy.

Thank you to all who attending or who are still planning to attend our various Parent Evenings . These gatherings are so important: a space for connection, shared understanding, and deepening our picture of the curriculum and child development. The partnership between home and school remains a cornerstone of Steiner education, and your engagement strengthens that bond. We hold these sessions in-person and on campus, reflecting the experiential nature of learning at Glenaeon, and in the belief that parent connection within any class is vital for nurturing a cohesive, supportive community around each child. When parents come together, it creates a warm social fabric that uplifts teachers and, most importantly, the students themselves. Thank you for your presence, your questions, and your willingness to walk this educational journey with us.

One of the most heartening sights this last week has been the renewed Year 11 and Year 7 buddy program activities. Our senior students have stepped beautifully into their role as guides and companions, helping younger students feel they belong, find their place, and settle quickly into high school life. The buddy program plays an important part in shaping a vibrant student culture, one grounded in our shared values, and our student expectations: Be safe. Be kind. Be responsible. Be ready to learn. We are proud of the leadership, empathy, and maturity our Year 11 students are modelling.

Our gardens are thriving, abundant, and in some cases, taking new shape and form. Across Castlecrag, Middle Cove, and at Preschool, children and teachers have been working side by side to clear, tend, cultivate, and transform. In these outdoor learning moments, we see Steiner’s vision come alive: the child meeting the world through doing, sensing, observing, and participating in nature’s rhythms.

A special mention must go to our newest and youngest new starters, those at Preschool and in Kindergarten . The children are settling well, forming new friendships and adapting to their new routines with growing confidence. These early weeks of are often filled with wonder, and it’s been a joy to hear of these small but significant steps.

On Monday, our Open Boys Basketball team claimed overall victory in the ISD competition, earning the title of Champions for 2026 . We believe this may be a Glenaeon first! Congratulations to the players, their basketball coach, and to Coach Adrian Carter; your teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship are inspiring!

Warmly,
Diana Drummond
Head of School

Glenaeon’s Senior Boys Basketball team made history with a magnificent win in the ISD Basketball Championships on Monday. The boys topped pool play with 2 big wins and a narrow loss, knocking out perennial contenders and reigning champions Amity College in a very tough preliminary round match.

The elation of that early victory was short lived- tough opponents Malak Fahd Greenacre quickly followed and our boys rallied hard to come from behind and dominate the second half of the semi final.

The Grand Final against Alpha Omega College was tense and despite getting behind early, the Gleno boys showed deep trust, maturity and exceptional teamwork and determination to bring home a trophy in this historic team win for Glenaeon.

Our Senior boys brought home the trophy but weren’t the only team to be proud of at the Bankstown Basketball Centre. Our senior girls team won 2 from 3 games and narrowly lost in pool play to the eventual champions and despite missing Semi finals can hold their head high with their spirited play. Their deeply competitive nature was highly evident and their

Junior Girls won 2 games and lost 2 in pool play also narrowly missing semi final play. As a team of students who are coming to basketball with limited experience in a highly competitive level, our girls overachieved and showed that teamwork, strong positive communication and an eagerness to work for each other can beat experience.

Junior Boys faced a tough draw and our youth in in this division showed a great deal of promise with two hard fought losses and a convincing win in their final pool game.

Keep an eye out for news on Finn, Scarlett S, Emily and Liam Yr 11,  Arthur, Matai Yr 10 and Heike and Jonathon Yr 9 who have all been selected at their respective levels to represent ISD at AICES Basketball Championships in an effort to move on to the next schools representative level.

What a day! Tournament Championships for Glenaeon teams have been rare. All we ask of students in our teams is to play with pride. Pride in their own capacity. Pride in their teammates and pride in representing Glenaeon. The cheers from our Senior Boys rang as loud for the junior girls in their first games as the noise from other teams supporting our Senior Boys in the Grand Final. Spirit indeed,  and pride in spades. Glenaeon’s  sporting team culture is here.

Classes 4-6 have timetabled collaborative games every Friday afternoon! Teachers Lucy, Jamie, and Benita facilitate games and activities for the children. Last Friday we had hula hoops, poison ball, badminton, skipping, and eight other activities to keep us busy. So much fun while we build our skills!

We also welcomed our Class 4-6 parents and carers to our Middle Cove campus on Wednesday evening. Parents and Carers were invited to visit classrooms to view student work, and reconnect with the parent community. They enjoyed a Parent Education session led by Glenaeon’s Collegiate Chair, Katherine Arconati, on exploring media use in the mid–upper primary years. They then connected with the Class Teachers and met specialist teachers in the Junior Library. Thank you to all the parents and carers for joining us for a wonderful evening to support our students.

We were delighted to welcome our community to the 2026 school year at our annual Welcome Soirée, held in our Middle Cove outdoor amphitheatre and hosted by Head of School, Diana Drummond.

We extend our sincere thanks to Peter Candotti, Chair of the Board of Directors, and Huw Morris, Chair of the GPA, for their thoughtful addresses.

The evening offered a wonderful opportunity for new and returning members of our community to connect over drinks and canapés, surrounded by our beautiful bushland setting. We warmly thank our parents, carers, teachers and staff for joining us and helping to make it such a memorable summer evening.

What a wonderful first few weeks of Preschool we've had! The summertime sunshine has allowed for lots of water play outdoors. And indoors, our children and educators have enjoyed water colour painting, baking, dancing and sharing wholesome meals together. We even celebrated a special birthday with cake and storytelling aplenty!

Our highest endeavour must be to develop free human beings who are able of themselves to impart purpose and direction to their lives.

- Rudolf Steiner

As we begin a new school year, it is fitting to return to these enduring words from Rudolf Steiner. Written over a century ago, they continue to articulate with remarkable clarity the core purpose of our work and the foundation of Glenaeon’s Vision. This vision guides all that we do: in our care for children and young people, in the work of our staff, and in our shared responsibility as a community to steward and evolve the school into the future.

A New Year Begins

The opening days of Term 1 have been filled with a sense of renewal across Preschool, Castlecrag and Middle Cove. Students have returned to familiar friendships, formed new connections, and begun to settle into the rhythms of a new year of learning. We extend a particularly warm welcome to families joining Glenaeon for the first time. We look forward to getting to know you and partnering with you in your child’s journey.

These early days set an important tone. We hope they are marked by curiosity, confidence and a growing sense of belonging, and that conversations at home reflect engagement, optimism and enthusiasm for the year ahead.

Teaching Staff News

We are delighted to welcome several new teachers and assistants to Glenaeon this year. Each brings experience, expertise and a shared commitment to holistic education. You’ll find introductions to our new staff members below, and we extend a very warm welcome to them all as they join our community.

Elizabeth Nevieve: We welcome Elizabeth back to Glenaeon as our Eurythmy teacher for Upper Primary and High School. Senior High School families may remember Elizabeth from her previous role as Deputy Head of High School. She brings deep artistic and pedagogical expertise, firmly grounded in Steiner philosophy and practice. Alongside her teaching, Elizabeth will support key areas of school life including seasonal Festivals, compliance, Registration and Accreditation, and will also take on a High School Guardian role.

Cressida Rigney: We warmly welcome Dr Cressida Rigney to our High School History team. Cressida holds a double degree with majors in Australian Literature and Studies of Religion, as well as a PhD from the University of Sydney. She joins us from Redlands, where she worked in Learning Support, and will also contribute to our Learning Enrichment program this year. Cressida brings a strong commitment to differentiated, inquiry‑based teaching that enriches student learning.

Emma Divers: Emma joins the Kindergarten team at Castlecrag, working alongside Catherine Pilko and Melanie Harper. Originally from New Zealand, Emma moved to Sydney with her family last year and her two children now attend Glenaeon in High School. She joined Glenaeon as a Casual Teacher in mid‑2025, having previously taught Kindergarten and Primary classes at Michael Park Steiner School. Emma holds a Steiner Certificate in Education from Taruna College, Hawke’s Bay, and we are delighted to welcome her to the team.

Thomas Jubb: Thomas joins Glenaeon as a TAS teacher with 15 years of High School teaching experience.  He holds a Bachelor of Engineering, a Master of Teaching, and is currently undertaking a Master of Counselling. Thomas has a strong commitment to indigenous education. Thomas is covering for Anthony Fiore, who is on Long Service Leave from Term 1 to Term 3.

Ellen Brown: Ellen joins Glenaeon as our part‑time Primary Library Teacher for a 12‑month contract. She holds a Bachelor of Music, a Master of Primary and Secondary Teaching, and an Advanced Diploma of Rudolf Steiner Education. A Glenaeon graduate herself, having attended the school from Kindergarten, we are delighted to welcome Ellen back to the community as a teacher.

Motoko Christensen: Dr Motoko Christiansen joins Glenaeon as our part‑time Primary Language Teacher for Classes 1, 2 and 3. Motoko previously worked at Glenaeon in 1989 and returns with over 40 years of teaching experience across all levels of schooling, including innovative curriculum design and delivery. A native Japanese speaker, she brings a deep understanding of Japanese culture and is excited to share this rich cultural learning with our students.

Charlotte Grien: Charlotte joins Glenaeon as a part-time HSIE teacher.  She will teach Geography in Years 9 and 10 this year. Charlotte holds an Advanced Diploma in Steiner Education and is completing a Masters of Teaching (High School) at Charles Sturt University. A Glenaeon graduate, Charlotte is looking forward to reconnecting with her old school in a brand new way!

Linda Peter: Linda will continue on as Class Assistant and will be supporting Class 1 and Class 2 in a full-time capacity.

Yulong Sun: Dr Yulong Sun joins Glenaeon as our new Lab Assistant. Yulong holds a PhD in Science and brings several years of experience in academic research and university teaching. Having discovered a passion for working with school‑aged students, he is commencing a Master of Teaching (Secondary) this year, specialising in Chemistry, Science and Mandarin.

Jonathan Rush: Jonathan joins Glenaeon as a Design and Technology Assistant from Term 2 and will be with us in Term 1 to complete his final teaching placement. A Glenaeon parent, we are looking forward to welcoming him to the teaching team.

In addition, we are pleased to welcome back Pam Laycock (Head of English and Director of Professional Practice) and George Morton-Ramwell (Head of Science) who were on extended leave during 2025.

Welcome Soiree

I look forward to meeting new and returning families tonight at our annual Welcome Soiree , an evening that promises good food, great company and possibly, the start of some beautiful friendships.

Here’s to a wonderful year ahead, filled with extraordinary possibilities.

Warmly,
Diana Drummond
Head of School

Since their first day, our Kindergarten children have been settling in nicely to their new rhythm in Waratah and Wattle rooms at Castlecrag. In Kindergarten, the children have been learning about their playground and outside environment through a beautiful story about a little boy and little girl who set sail in their little boat in search of adventures.

Sail my boat on the ocean

Over the deep blue sea

Sail my boat on the ocean

With billowing sails so free

Each day they arrive at a new island that depicts a new element of the outside environment.

There is a rocky island where they climb over and under the rocks; there is a sandy island where they dig and make little creeks and dams; and there is an island where they learn to take care of the chooks.

This wonderful story adapted from a story written by Susan Perrow is a beautiful accompaniment to the daily play and learning of the children.

We were so excited to welcome our newest high school students to Glenaeon at our Middle Cove campus on Wednesday. A lovely opportunity to meet their Guardians and Teachers, tour the campus and make meaningful connections with their peers before the first day of school.

Welcome to Glenaeon!

Class 1 walked under the beautiful ‘Rainbow Bridge’ this morning on the sunny first day of school. It is such a lovely ceremony to share - the children gather in the Kindergarten playground with their teacher from last year, sing their morning song and then walk together through the long tunnel made from a rainbow silk, held up by Class 2. This year we are joined by Class 3 on this campus, who made a beautiful tunnel of arms as well, singing “Make new friends” with Class 2. The Class 1 children are given a flower by their Kindergarten teacher to take ‘under the Rainbow Bridge’ which they gave to their new teacher Prue Ritchie on the other side.

Parents of all three classes watch and our Head of School Diana Drummond and Deputy Head of School (K-6) Dani Finch also share in this moment. The children then make their way onto the balcony of Class 1 and their first day in the Class Teacher Period begins! This is an important Rite of Passage and a symbolic moment in Steiner education and ignites the beginning of the Class Teacher journey. Prue is excited to get to know the children and begin this wonderful journey and will form special bonds with each child and nurture and guide them through their primary years with the supportive assistance of other specialist teachers. Following the ceremony, parents share morning tea together, with Dani Finch, Diana Drummond, Class Parents and GPA Steering Committee member Alex Pampel alongside Class 2 parents welcoming them and building community on our Castlecrag Campus.

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!