Term 2 is well and truly underway, yet I find myself still in awe of our Cadets program and my visit to AFX26 in Week 10.

I am not sure whether it was the sheer scale of the camp, the student-led leadership, or the enthusiastic participation of every Cadet regardless of rank, but it is certainly an experience one must witness to understand the gravity of its impact. While I am still reflecting on why it moved me so deeply, of this I am certain: Meriden students make exceptional Cadets. This is not a judgment I share lightly. They get the job done, own their responsibilities, and leave no stone unturned when it comes to caring for their fellow Cadets.

Purposeful experiences like these, and the self-leadership they demand, demonstrate how cocurricular pursuits help students build confidence in ways that complement their classroom learning. Every Cadet I encountered moved with a sense of focus and determination that reflected both their resilience and the successful application of the skills they have developed throughout the training year.

The importance of a strong and intentional cocurricular program cannot be overstated. In a girls’ school grounded in Christian faith, these opportunities take on even greater significance. Cocurricular life becomes a space where young women are encouraged to grow not only in skill and confidence, but also in leadership, character, purpose, and identity. Our programs are built on the understanding that Meriden students are known, valued, and called to live with courage and compassion.

Both our recent Alternative Music Camp and the Interact Dance are further examples of the depth of cocurricular life at our school. Whether through the creativity and collaborative expression of Music Camp, or the servant leadership shown by our Year 10 and 11 Interact Club students, these experiences allow our girls to use their unique gifts to create something meaningful and uplifting together.

Key Reminders for Term 2

• Road Safety: With increased traffic at the start of the term, please exercise patience and vigilance during peak drop-off and pick-up windows. Please be mindful of no stopping areas and remind your daughters to always use the designated pedestrian crossings.
• Labelling Belongings: Now that we have transitioned to the winter uniform, please ensure all items are clearly labelled with your daughter’s name.
• Winter Sport Uniform: When students are permitted to wear their sport uniform to events or excursions, the tracksuit pants and jacket should be worn as the outer layer.
• Lost Property: If your daughter has misplaced any items, please encourage her to visit the lost property area on the Deck, outside AS11, which is open daily during recess.
• Senior School Athletics Carnival: The carnival will be held on Wednesday, 20 May. Please ensure you have accepted permission via the Meriden Parent App. Please note that there are no Meriden canteen lunch orders available on this day. Students need to take their own food, or purchase food from the track.

Mother’s Day

Wishing all our mothers a very Happy Mother’s Day. A warm thank you to the P&F for hosting such a beautiful Mother’s Day breakfast this morning. We give thanks for the women in our community who nurture, guide, and love us.